At any one time a third of our personnel are serving on board ships, while the remainder may be training or working as shore support to keep the ships operational.
On the job
Each ship develops its own unique community; there are many trades working together to make up the crews and each is dependant on the other. So no matter what the mission, there is an incredible sense of camaraderie that develops when working and living in close proximity.
Our ships have been designed to undertake specific roles. For example HMNZS RESOLUTION's activities focus on conducting hydrographic surveys, HMNZS MANAWANUI is our specialist diving vessel, HMNZS ROTOITI, PUKAKI, TAUPO and HAWEA manage inshore patrols, while HMNZS TE MANA and TE KAHA travel further afield on offshore patrol and peacekeeping activities. Therefore your job, and the primary operations of each ship, depends on the capabilities of each vessel.
The Basics
When at sea the necessities of life are provided; and we don’t just mean your bed and meals. Recreational facilities are available where you can catch up on some well needed rest and relaxation, work out, play video games, or go online and communicate with friends or family back home.
Each of our ships has state of the art satellite communications systems and access to the internet is often available when off duty.
While the common areas for meals and relaxation are shared, the sleeping and bathroom areas are separated for male and female. The size of sleeping areas and number of people sharing are dependent on your rank, but as a general rule will usually be twin or triple share rooms.
Family Support
While you are away at sea, your family has access to support services, manned by staff that understand the Navy ‘lifestyle’, and are able to assist with childcare, financial matters, emergency services or housing.
Qualified social workers are available on a 24-7 basis and a specialised Naval Community Organisation set up to provide these services.
All jobs in the Navy make an important contribution to New Zealand’s welfare. So become part of our dynamic team, play your part, have your place on one of our ships, and make friends that last a lifetime!
Find out more about how to join the Navy now > Full time enlistment.