Summer Student Harbours | Tauira - Ahu Moana

Make Waves This Summer - Join the Harbourmaster’s Team!

Love being out on the water? Interested in maritime safety? Here’s your chance to turn your passion into experience! The Nelson Harbourmaster is offering one part-time Summer Student position - a rare opportunity to support the safety of our harbour, port, and waterways while building your skills for the future.

We are Wakatū Nelson - a city where creativity, prosperity, and innovation thrive. Our vision is to foster a community that is inclusive, resilient, and deeply connected. We care for one another and for our pūahatanga harbour, creating a vibrant, safe, and supportive place for everyone.

About the role | Kō tēnei tūranga mahi

As a summer student, you’ll be at the heart of harbor operations, working alongside our Harbourmaster to ensure the safety of everyone who enjoys the water - from commercial operators to weekend boaties. You’ll :

• Conduct daily water patrols
• Remove navigation hazards (logs, mussel floats, etc.)
• Support emergency callouts and routine maintenance checks
• Help with safety surveys, vessel registrations, and record keeping
• Educate and engage with the public on safe boating practices
• Keep working areas tidy and ship-shape

No two days are the same - one day you might be clearing a hazard, the next helping with an urgent callout. It’s hands-on, practical, and meaningful work.

About you | Ko ngā pūmanawa ō

We’re looking for motivated students with :

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• The ability to work with independence and initiative
• Confidence in the water (you must be a capable swimmer)
• Basic knowledge of navigation, meteorology, engineering, rope skills, and safety awareness
• In your cover letter, please confirm you meet these criteria :
• Current driver’s license (manual)
• RYA Powerboat Level 2 (or equivalent)
• Coastguard Boating Education Day Skipper (or equivalent)
• Minimum VHF Operator’s certificate

What we offer | Ko ngā painga mōu

As part of Te Ahu Moana o Whakatū | Nelson Marina, you’ll join a team that values mahi tahi - collaboration and teamwork - and a Manager who is committed to supporting you to grow and thrive.

• A chance to kick-start your maritime career with practical, hands-on experience
• Work outdoors in one of Aotearoa’s most stunning harbours
• Join a supportive and passionate tīma who care about our community and marine environment

Good to know

• Part-time, 20 hours per week, November 2024 – March 2025
• On-call 3 days per week
• Safety-sensitive role - pre-employment drug & alcohol testing applies
• Applications are reviewed as they are received - so get in quick!

For more information about this role please contact Pete Carmichael, Deputy Harbourmaster -

Please ensure that you submit your application via the link to ensure it is received.

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