Musician, The Royal NZ Navy Band

New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF)| Te Ope Kātua o Aotearoa

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) is seeking dedicated Military Musicians to join its world-class Navy Band. This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to combine your musical talents with a rewarding career in The Royal New Zealand Navy Band.

As a Navy Musician, you will perform in a wide variety of ensembles – from full concert band and parade band to Big Band and smaller chamber groups, jazz combos, and ceremonial ensembles. You will:

• Perform at official ceremonies, military parades, state functions, and public concerts across
• New Zealand and internationally.
• Represent the Navy, Defence Force, and New Zealand on deployments, international exchanges, and cultural engagements abroad.
• Support ceremonial duties that uphold naval tradition and esprit de corps.
• Train and perform in a diverse range of musical genres including classical, jazz, ceremonial, and contemporary repertoire.
• This is a unique opportunity to combine professional musicianship with the teamwork, leadership, and discipline of the military environment.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We are seeking two musicians from the following instruments:

• Saxophone
• Trumpet/Bugler
• Trombone
• Percussion

You will need to possess the following attributes:

• Experience as a professional musician. Ideally with a background in performing with large ensembles.
• Proficient Musicianship: You possess advanced technical ability in your insrument, with a strong understanding of musical theory. Secondary instruments are not essential. However, they will make you a stronger candidate.
• Learning and Adaptability: You are eager to learn and improve, and you take a proactive approach to mastering new repertoire and techniques.
• Rehearsal Preparation: You come to rehearsals prepared and ready to contribute positively to the ensemble.
• Team Contribution: You work well within a team, playing your part to enhance the overall cohesion of the band.
• Positive Engagement: You display enthusiasm and confidence during performances, helping to create a positive atmosphere for both the audience and fellow musicians.
• It is worth noting there is no upper age limit for our recruits, so long as you pass the medical,
• physical and security requirements. Learn more at www.defencecareers.mil.nz/am-I-eligible

Mō mātou | About Us

Every hour of every day, 365 days of the year, the New Zealand Defence Force is contributing to the defence, security and well-being of Aotearoa / New Zealand. As a modern, professional military, it is our goal to maintain well-trained, equipped and disciplined armed forces that can react to a crisis at short notice.

The Royal New Zealand Navy Band is a world-class ensemble of professional musicians, representing Aotearoa New Zealand at home and overseas. From state ceremonies and military parades to community concerts and international tours, the Band is at the forefront of honouring tradition and connecting audiences through music.

A career with the RNZN Band means more than just performance. It offers:

• Professional growth – develop as both a musician and leader.
• Travel opportunities – perform across New Zealand and on the world stage.
• Job security & benefits – full-time salary, healthcare, and career progression.
• Unique purpose – serve your country while doing what you love.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

NZDF is an inclusive organisation that is open to flexible working arrangements and welcomes applications from people regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, age, beliefs/opinions, or family circumstances.

In return for your expertise, dedication and hard work, NZDF is offering remuneration reflective of your experience, along with:

• Competitive starting remuneration.
• Great benefits for you and your family.
• Full time ongoing work.
• Fully funded life cover up to $300,000.
• Access to holiday accommodation across NZ.
• Discounts Handbook for selected retail, entertainment and service providers.
• 5 weeks annual leave per year.
• Dynamic working environment and positive culture.
• Opportunities for career development.
• Extensive travel opportunities domestically and internationally.
• Free and subsidised medical and dental care.
• Funded tertiary study opportunities available.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain the required level of NZ Government security clearance for the position applied for and meet certain citizenship requirements. To apply, create a profile and complete your application at defencecareers.mil.nz/apply. Select the trade preference service as “Navy”, then select work type as “Full Time”, then trade preference as “Musician - Navy”. Include the instrument you wish to be considered for in your cover letter or personal statement. This will help ensure you receive the information pack in time. The deadline for uploading of CV and link to an online audition is 14 Nov 25.

We will communicate an electronic information pack once we have received a completed application which will detail what is required for the virtual audition video.

Shortlisted candidates will need to be available to attend an in person audition at Devonport Naval Base in December 2025.

Exact dates will be communicated to short-listed candidates after the video audition. Domestic travel and accommodation costs are covered for the shortlisted candidates attending the in person audition.

For more information on parts of the application process visit our step-by-step guide on applying for military roles at defencecareers.mil.nz/the-application-process .

If you do have further questions about the role, please email: specialists@defencecareers.mil.nz .