Looking for more than just driving a boat?

Manaaki Marine is recruiting on behalf of an established marine services business for a Workboat Skipper to join their Auckland-based operations.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys working on the water but is equally happy getting stuck in alongside the wider team.

Operating from Westhaven Marina, you'll spend your days supporting marine maintenance operations, transporting personnel and equipment, working beneath wharves, and assisting with inspections across Auckland's waterfront.

If you're the sort of skipper who isn't afraid to roll up your sleeves, you'll fit right in.

About the Role

You'll primarily operate a range of commercial workboats while supporting specialist marine maintenance activities throughout the Waitematā Harbour.

No two days are the same. One day you may be positioning a vessel beneath a marina structure for inspections, the next you'll be assisting with marine cleaning operations or supporting the wider team wherever required.

The successful applicant will also have the opportunity to operate a variety of commercial workboats ranging from 4.5 metres through to 16 metres, providing excellent experience across different vessel types.

This is predominantly a Monday to Friday position, although occasional flexibility around working hours may be required to work with tidal conditions.

An end of July start is available.

What You'll Be Doing

• Safely operating commercial workboats around Auckland's waterfront

• Supporting water blasting and marine maintenance activities

• Positioning vessels for inspections beneath wharves and marina structures

• Assisting with loading, unloading, and transporting equipment

• Helping wherever needed to ensure projects run smoothly

• Maintaining high standards of safety and professionalism

What We're Looking For

You'll bring:

• A current Maritime New Zealand Skipper Restricted Limits (SRL) certificate (minimum requirement)

• A current New Zealand Class 1 Driver Licence

• Confidence operating small commercial vessels

• A practical, hands-on approach with a willingness to support the wider team

• Strong communication skills and a positive attitude

• A commitment to safe operating practices

Previous knowledge of the Waitematā Harbour and Auckland's marina environment would be highly regarded but isn't essential.

Who This Role Will Suit

This role is ideal for someone who:

• Enjoys practical, hands-on work

• Doesn't mind getting their hands dirty

• Likes working outdoors in a marine environment

• Wants variety rather than spending every day doing the same thing

• Takes pride in being a reliable team member

What's on Offer

• Full-time permanent employment

• Monday to Friday work with excellent work-life balance

• Opportunity to operate a range of commercial workboats from 4.5m to 16m

• Diverse marine operations across Auckland's waterfront

• Supportive, close-knit team

• Opportunity to broaden your commercial boating experience

Important Information

This position is based in Auckland, New Zealand.

Applicants must already be legally entitled to work in New Zealand. Unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Apply Today

If you're looking for a role that combines commercial boating with practical marine operations—and you enjoy being part of a hardworking team—we'd love to hear from you.

About Manaaki Marine

Manaaki Marine is a specialist marine recruitment partner supporting operators across New Zealand with crew and project talent solutions.

We work closely with industry to connect capable people with meaningful opportunities across the maritime sector