The R. Tucker Thompson Sail Training Trust has teamed up with Queenstown Resort College Tai Tokerau (QRC) and Skipper
Training NZ to deliver a Maritime and Tourism Operations training programme based in Paihia. The collaborative
initiative has been developed by the not-for-profit Trust to create a formal training pathway to employment for
qualified deckhand positions on commercial vessels operating in the Bay of Islands.
R. Tucker Thompson Sail Training Trust Chief Executive Jo Lynch says, “We developed this training following discussions
with the key maritime tourism operators in the Bay of Islands. Graduates from our 7-day youth development programme
often show an interest in a maritime career, so we designed a course to enable our young people to gain the skills and
qualifications suitable for the local maritime industry jobs on offer. We are delighted to partner with two incredible
organisations to deliver this course locally.”
The programme will deliver the QRC Tourism Operations programme and training towards Maritime NZ Qualified Deckhand Crew certification. This combination makes up the Maritime Tourism Operations course. Students will focus on achieving two
certificate qualifications shaped to suit the current local job market.
Tourism Operations provides an introduction to the dynamic tourism industry. The programme focuses on the concepts of
Manaakitanga (the process of showing respect, generosity and care for others) and Whanaungatanga (a relationship through
shared experiences and working together that provides people with a sense of belonging), and how these are applied in a
professional tourism and hospitality context. Graduates will understand the importance of customer service and
interpretation in delivering a unique visitor experience.
The Maritime Operations part of the course will be delivered by Skipper Training NZ. They will deliver industry training
to prepare candidates to sit the Maritime NZ Qualified Deck Crew certification. Students will spend time on boats in the
bay completing their Qualified Deck Crew Training Record Book in preparation for the Maritime NZ oral exam.
The course will be delivered over 16 weeks from July to November. Students will have the opportunity to apply for jobs
on the water for the 2022 summer. Students can access accommodation, meals and pastoral care, Fees Free study, student
financial support through QRC, and thus obtain subsidised education and a clear pathway to work.
The R. Tucker Thompson Sail Training Trust has sourced funding through the Mayors Task Force for Jobs and support from
the MSD Community Recovery Programme to deliver the QDC programme. Lynch says, “Our kaupapa is Learning for Life Through the Sea; this initiative stands to extend the benefits of our core youth development programme to offer long-term opportunities
for our rangatahi, whanau and communities.”
An information event will be held at 4pm, 24 May, 2022 on the R. Tucker Thompson tall ship in Opua. More information can
be found online here:
www.qrc.ac.nz/qualified-deck-crew