Qualified Deckhand (QDC)

Explore Group; Paihia; On-site; NZD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Seasonal contracts with potential for

Career development opportunities

Work in a beautiful marine environment

Job summary

Explore Group seeks motivated Qualified Deckhands to join the Bay of Islands team for the 2026/27 season. You will support vessel operations, deliver exceptional guest service, and help maintain safety standards on our passenger vessels.

These fixed-term roles run through to April 2027 with potential for ongoing permanent opportunities for the right candidates, in a dynamic marine tourism environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualified Deckhand Certificate (QDC) with passenger endorsement.
• Current First Aid Certificate.
• Strong initiative, self-motivation and reliability.
• Excellent communication and decision-making skills.
• Customer-first mindset and professional presentation.
• Ability to lead by example and motivate others.
• Confidence under pressure in a dynamic environment.
• Rotating roster shifts 7.00am–8.30pm.

Responsibilities

• Work as a Qualified Deckhand on passenger vessels, supporting safe operations and delivering exceptional customer service.
• Contribute to on-water experiences while ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations.
• Fixed-term seasonal roles through to end-April 2027 with potential permanent opportunities.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Teamwork

Leadership by example

Education

Qualified Deckhand Certificate (QDC) with passenger endorsement

First Aid Certificate

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Explore Group operates a range of marine based tourism experiences across the Bay of Islands, Auckland and Hamilton Island, including the iconic Fullers Bay of Islands brand. We are passionate about delivering safe, memorable experiences in some of New Zealand and Australia's most spectacular coastal locations.

We are looking for motivated and professional Qualified Deckhands (QDC) to join our Bay of Islands team for the 2026/27 summer season.

Supporting the delivery of our iconic day trips through the marine mammal sanctuary of Ipipiri, you'll be part of a professional and supportive crew, helping to create outstanding guest experiences while maintaining a strong focus on safety, teamwork and operational excellence.

The ideal candidate will be well presented, friendly and confident working with both guests and crew. You'll bring strong communication skills, a calm and capable approach, and a commitment to delivering a high quality product every day.

About the role

In this role, you will work as a Qualified Deckhand on board our passenger vessels, supporting safe vessel operations and providing exceptional customer service. You'll play a key part in delivering outstanding on-water experiences while ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations.

These are fixed-term seasonal roles through to the end of April 2027, with potential permanent opportunities for the right candidates.

Key requirements

• Minimum Qualified Deckhand Certificate (QDC) with passenger endorsement
• Current First Aid Certificate
• Strong initiative, self-motivation, and reliability
• Excellent communication and decision-making skills
• A customer-first mindset and professional presentation
• Ability to lead by example and motivate others
• Confidence working under pressure in a dynamic environment
• Flexibility to work shifts on a rotating roster between 7.00am - 8.30pm

What we offer

• Be part of a supportive, passionate, and professional team
• Seasonal contracts with potential for ongoing permanent roles
• Unique lifestyle and career development opportunities in the marine tourism industry
• The opportunity to work in one of New Zealand's most beautiful marine environments

Explore Group is a drug and alcohol-free employer. Pre-employment and random on-the-job drug and alcohol testing may be required. Only applicants with the legal right to work in New Zealand will be considered.

If you're a capable maritime professional who enjoys working with people, being part of a strong crew and delivering memorable on-water experiences, we'd love to hear from you.