Before you start the Limited Service Volunteer course

After you've applied and been accepted for the LSV course, there's some things you need to do to make the most of the course.

When the NZ Defence Force get in touch to let you know you're accepted, they give you a detailed list of everything you need to do and what to bring. They also confirm the date you start the course and they organise your transport.

What to bring

NZ Defence Force will give you a list of what to bring. We keep in touch regularly before you start the course, and can help you get everything you need.

You need to bring things like:

• formal clothes for the graduation dinner – this could be a dress, suit pants or shirt and tie, and you need dress shoes
• toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush and deodorant
• some money to buy personal items – there's a shop at the camp and you'll be given times to go there if you need to
• if you take medication regularly, you need to bring enough for 6 weeks in the original container. Talk to your doctor or pharmacy and ask for enough to last 6 weeks.

What you wear during the course

You wear military uniforms, footwear and equipment during the course. All of this is given to you when you arrive.

You must wear this during the course and return it when you leave.

Cell phones and mobile devices

You can bring a cell phone or mobile device with you, but you won't be able to use it all the time. You need to focus on the course, so you can get the most out of it.

You need to hand in your cell phone or mobile device when you arrive at the camp. Make sure your family and friends know you won't be able to access your phone all the time, so they understand you can't reply quickly.

You can write letters while you're on the course and post these from the camp. People can also write letters back to you.

Getting to the course

NZ Defence Force will organise your transport for you. You don't need to pay for your ticket.

Some of the transport options are:

• bus
• rental van
• plane
• NZ Defence Force bus or van.

NZ Defence Force works out the best way for you to travel, and they will tell you what you need to do and when. They also contact you a few days before you leave, to make sure you're ready.

You can't bring your own car to the course, as you are not allowed to park at the camp.

After the course

NZ Defence Force also organises your transport home. Again, you don't need to pay for transport.