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Accommodation assistance

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) provides practical accommodation support to ensure the wellbeing and readiness of its personnel. From barracks and housing to allowances for higher living costs, this page outlines the options available for Regular Force members and their families.

Defence Barracks

All Regular Force members can apply to live in Defence barracks, depending on availability. A fortnightly barrack charge is deducted from their pay if they live there permanently.

Members of the Territorial Force or Civil Staff may also be allocated barracks in exceptional circumstances.

Defence Housing

NZDF has a limited number of Defence Houses that support members of the Regular Force and their immediate family, when they are permanently posting between camps and bases, in different regions, or upon return from an overseas posting. 

Priority

Due to the small number of Defence houses, priority is given to members on permanent postings or those returning from overseas. Short-term housing may also be provided for urgent welfare needs or during transitions between posting locations.

Eligibility

  • Each Regular Force member can live in a Defence house for up to 6 years, subject to eligibility, priority, and availability.
  • Most Civil Staff are not entitled to Defence housing, except for specific roles in remote areas that require security and housing.
  • Members of the Territorial Force are not eligible for Defence housing.

Rental Rates and Barrack Charges

Rental rates for Defence housing and charges for barracks are set every three years in agreement with Inland Revenue. These rates are consistent across most locations, regardless of local market rates, ensuring members pay the same amount when transferring between regions.

Operational Enabling Allowance (OEAPR)

OEAPR is a posting allowance for some Regular Force members moving to regions where accommodation costs are higher than the New Zealand average.

Eligibility

  • Based on length of service, rank, and posting location.
  • Not all Regular Force members qualify.
  • Territorial Force members and Civil Staff are not eligible for OEAPR.

Rates

Adjusted yearly, meaning payments can increase or decrease annually