Established in November 1994 and officially recognised in December 1995, TACCU has been a pillar of youth development for 29 years, having imparted invaluable training to approximately 550 local young individuals.

Originally stationed at Te Awamutu College's bus shelters and later at 420 Albert Park Drive for nearly three decades, TACCU has recently relocated to the Marist Clubrooms in 2024. This move signifies not just a change in venue but an expansion, creating a more conducive learning environment for the unit.

In its inaugural year, TACCU participated in the regional Skills competition and emerged victorious, surprising many with its immediate success.

Over the years, TACCU has consistently provided top-notch training to its Cadets. For 14 years, the unit played a pivotal role in regional training exercises, including Haruaki Experience. This event, hosted by the 6th Hauraki Battalion, RNZIR, attracted hundreds of Cadets from the Bay of Plenty and Waikato to Waiouru Military Camp for an immersive week-long Army experience during winter.

The impact of TACCU Cadets extends beyond their training, as they grow into exemplary individuals who positively influence their communities. This success underscores the value of the NZCF Leadership Development framework in shaping the youth of our community.

A testament to TACCU's effectiveness is seen in the number of its Cadets who have gone on to serve in the New Zealand Defence Force and various government agencies such as Fire, Police, and Nursing.

TACCU takes pride in its ongoing commitment to offer NZCF membership and training to local youth, contributing to the rich legacy of the New Zealand Cadet Forces. As a voluntary, uniformed organisation, NZCF provides military-style leadership, personal development opportunities, and adventure-based training to youth aged between 13 and 19 years old.

Comprising three branches - Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, and Air Cadets - the Cadet Forces delivers a nationally coordinated training program. This program offers unique challenges and opportunities, and through local, regional, and national courses, it provides further experience and qualifications in specific training areas.

Founded in 1864, the Cadet Forces stands as New Zealand's oldest youth organization. Since 1971, it has been in partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force and locally appointed community organizations, embodying a rich tradition of serving the youth of New Zealand in a non-profit capacity.