Zealand Cadet Force Unit for service to the community. NZCF is a voluntary organization for youth aged 13–18 years of age. Equipment Firearms Currently in use Marlin XT Norinco JW-15a – Removed from service as a service rifle in 2011. Only in service as a non-functional drill purpose rifle. No. 8 Rifle – Removed from service as a service rifle in 2008. In service as a non-functional drill purpose rifle (some Southern Area units only). Drill Purpose Training Aid – Referred to as "DPTA's" there is a Mk I and Mk II variant. These serve as introductory platforms for Cadets to learn ceremonial drill. Formerly used L1A1 Self Loading Rifle (SLR) – Used as a blank firing firearm on exercises and as a non-functional drill purpose rifle. .303 SMLE rifle – in 1912 issued to senior cadets with Pattern 1903 bayonet .303 Bren gun Vickers MMG Sten gun .310 BSA Model D Air Rifle Vehicles The New Zealand Cadet Forces operates a fleet of utility vehicles to enable Cadet Units to facilitate camps, exercises, and activities without always needing to hire vehicles. The NZCF have leased these vehicles long-term, they are based out of each area's (Northern, Central, Southern) training and support unit RNZAF Base Auckland, RNZAF Base Ohakea, Burnham Army Camp. Headquarters New Zealand Cadet Forces also retain a small number of vehicles that act as company vehicles for the use of senior NZCF staff such as the Commandant, NZCF and the Executive Officer. Each vehicle is branded in an NZCF livery in order to promote brand awareness. The livery itself is based New Zealand Defence Careers vehicles to promote synergy between the two. The NZCF operates the following vehicles: Toyota Rav 4 SUV Mitsubishi Triton Ute Toyota Hiace Van Medals and Awards Cadet of the Year Award Inaugurated in 2016, the Cadet of the Year Award (COTY) is an annual panel judged award received by one cadet who most exemplifies the NZCF values of Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity, during a calendar year. To be selected for judging by the panel a person must be nominated by another member of the NZCF, who must complete an NZCF 104 – COTY Nomination Form. Potential recipients must have demonstrated each of the values throughout the year and be recommended by their Cadet Unit Commander, who must complete submit a comment with the NZCF 104 form as to why the cadet