Changes to Apply Now and Login

From Wednesday 5 February 2025, the expression of interest form and the application form have been updated to make it easier for you to track your progress every step of the way.

  • The online application process starts with the Initial Recruit Application- Eligibility which allows you to check whether you meet our eligibility requirements and are prepared for the recruitment process. If your initial recruit application shows you are eligible, you will be asked for further information that can be actioned from your careers login, or follow the instructions in the emails you are sent.
  • If you applied before 5 February, you can still log in to your portal here. There will be no change for your application process- the Recruitment team will continue to contact you and you can reach out to the team with any queries. You'll need to let them know if any details change.
  • If you submitted an expression of interest  before 5 February and you are ready to apply, complete the Initial Recruitment Application- Eligibility

If you have any questions please reach out at newcops@police.govt.nz

How long does the recruitment process take?

Our application process is moving rapidly once you progress through initial vetting, so you'll need to be at, or near, the Physical Appraisal Test (PAT) fitness standards, and ready to complete the Online Testing when you apply. 

If you have just applied and are waiting for your initial vetting to be completed, please note that time frames are longer than usual due to the volume of applicants at this point in the process. We will be in contact within 4-8 weeks. Keep preparing for your Online Testing and PAT in the meantime. 

Changes to eligibility criteria

  1. From Wednesday 17 July 2024, people who hold a restricted licence are eligible to apply as a Police Recruit. You will need to obtain your full driver licence before being offered a place at Royal New Zealand Police College.

  2. From Wednesday 17 July 2024, people who hold NZ Residency are eligible to apply as a Police Recruit.

    Check out our full eligibility criteria here.

How do I apply?

To get started, complete your initial recruit application form here. We’ll then let you know if you are eligible to apply. 

We are currently accepting applications for all Police Districts, except Canterbury, as we open applications in this area we will update the information on this page. 

If you have any questions about applying, contact us.

Events

Curious about what policing in New Zealand is all about? Our recruitment events can help you understand what it’s like to be a Police Officer.

Hear from staff about their roles, find out more about the recruitment process and ask us any questions that you may have about joining.

When events are scheduled, these will be listed on our NZ Police Recruitment Facebook page (link is external).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept applicants with NZ work visas?

We are unable to accept applicants with NZ work visas. Only people who hold  NZ Residency or NZ Permanent Residency or NZ or Australian Citizenship are eligible to apply as a Police Recruit.  To find out more about your visa status please visit https://www.immigration.govt.nz/

When will you be accepting applications for my preferred district?

At the moment Canterbury is the only district that is not accepting applications.  We are continuously monitoring demand across the country. As we open applications, we will update the information on this page.

Can I still apply for another non-constabulary job at Police?

You sure can. You can find out more about the other exciting career opportunities across the country at New Zealand Police here. 

Are you accepting re-joins?

Yes, please refer to Rejoin Recruitment for information about rejoining if you are a former NZ Police officer. 

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