Opotiki College

PO Box 146, St John Street, Opotiki, New Zealand Phone:(64)07 315 7022 Fax:(64)07 315 5639 Email: admin@opotikicol.school.nz

Te Hinengaro Te Tohu - The mind is the measure of the man!

Cadets

The Opotiki College Cadet Unit was formed in 1914, 91 years ago. The Unit is one of two Cadet Units in New Zealand that has the longest operating service. The majority of records from the Opotiki College Cadet Unit were destroyed in the 1964 floods.

In 1964, the Army announced a change in policy and throughout the country Cadet Units were disbanding including the Opotiki Cadet Unit.

In 1979, the unit was reinstated at the Opotiki College with assistance from 6th Hauraki (TF) Battalion. Mr John Brooks became the first Commanding Officer.

There were 30 student cadets who began training in school uniforms. Thanks largely to the generous sponsorship from the local RSA, and practical assistance from 6th Haurakis, uniforms were obtained for the cadets.

The support and sponsorship from the local community has continued through the years and has allowed a resource base to be created for unit members. The unit is now a stable and influential body within the local college.

Unit members have been active in their community assisting with a number of events and charity functions.

The Opotiki College Cadet Unit was awarded the RNZRSA Award for 2005, and this was presented at the RNZRSA National Council, Wellington on 11 July 2005. The Governor General Dame Silvia Cartwright presented the trophy.