_{03rd July, 2026}

Deckhand
Are you looking for more than just a deckhand role?
Do you have the drive, work ethic and leadership potential to build a long-term career on the water?
Join a progressive marine farming business where today's Deckhand can become tomorrow's First Mate.
 
About Us
Waimana Marine Ltd is a family-owned business with over four decades of experience in the Greenshell Mussel industry. Our operation spans mussel farm servicing, contract harvesting and spat production, all underpinned by a commitment to sustainable marine farming practices and protecting our marine environment for future generations.

We are seeking a motivated Deckhand to join the crew based out of our operations base Elaine Bay.  This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working on the water and is keen to develop their skills, take on greater responsibility, with the opportunity to develop your career.
 
About the Role
This is not your typical 9-to-5 job. Working four days on, four days off rotation, you'll spend your time at sea as part of a close-knit crew delivering essential marine farming operations.

Reporting to the Skipper and First Mate, you'll play a key role in the day-to-day operation of the vessel while gaining valuable experience and training that can support career progression within the business.
Your responsibilities will include:

• Float tying
• Harvesting and seeding operations
• Line maintenance
• Loading and unloading the vessel
• Setting up and maintaining marine farming equipment
• Vessel cleaning and general deck duties
• Supporting safe and efficient vessel operations
• Assisting with vessel maintenance and equipment upkeep
• Participating in safety drills, toolbox meetings and training activities
• Shore-based work as required

 
For the right person, there will be opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, develop leadership capability, and work towards progression into a First Mate role.
 
About You
Our ideal candidate will:

• Have a positive, can-do attitude and strong work ethic
• Be reliable, motivated and committed to the team
• Be physically fit and capable of working in a demanding outdoor environment
• Have a genuine respect for the sea and safe work practices
• Demonstrate initiative and a willingness to learn
• Be a strong team player with good communication skills
• Show leadership potential and an interest in developing a long-term maritime career
• We will also consider those outside of the maritime sector who are keen to shift careers.

Given the opportunity for career progression, we are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate leadership potential, sound judgement, and a willingness to develop the skills required to step into higher-level operational roles over time.
 
Previous experience in aquaculture, marine farming, vessel operations, or other physically demanding industries will help set you up for success in this role.

Relevant maritime qualifications, engineering tickets, and licences such as forklift, Hiab, or heavy traffic are desirable and can support future career progression opportunities. However, these are not essential for the right candidate, as full on-the-job training will be provided to ensure you have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
 
Why Join Waimana Marine?
Opportunities to build a maritime career with genuine advancement prospects are rare.  At Waimana Marine you'll:

• Receive ongoing training and development
• Be part of a respected family-owned business
• Enjoy a four-on, four-off roster that supports work-life balance
• Earn a competitive hourly rate plus applicable allowances
• Have the opportunity to progress into a First Mate position as your skills and experience develop.

Additional Requirements
Waimana Marine takes health and safety seriously. All successful applicants must:

• Pass a pre-employment drug test
• Participate in our random drug and alcohol testing programme
• Hold a full New Zealand driver's licence
• Have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Apply Now
For confidential enquiries, please contact Sacha MacDonald 027-386-9288 or alternatively you may apply with your cover letter and resume via our application portal.  All enquiries and applications will be treated in strict confidence.
 
Applications close: 16th July 2026

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