New Zealand Certificate in Fishing Vessel Crewing (Level 3)
Fisheries
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Gain the skills to work under supervision as a fishing deckhand in New Zealand and international waters. This NZQA Level 3 course prepares graduates for Maritime New Zealand certification and covers safe vessel operations, navigation, seamanship, and the basics of firefighting, first aid, and marine safety.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Windermere Campus, Tauranga
It will take a total of 50 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Work as a competent deckhand under supervision
Perform duties as a fishing vessel deckhand within coastal, offshore, and unlimited operational limits under the Maritime New Zealand operational framework.
Apply maritime safety requirements
Demonstrate knowledge of basic safety training including personal survival, fire prevention, emergency procedures, first aid, and pollution prevention.
Assist with vessel navigation and operations
Support navigation and watchkeeping duties, handle deck appliances, and contribute to safe vessel handling and mooring.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Fishing Vessel Crewing (Level 3) is an approved training course that leads to the internationally recognised advanced deckhand fishing certificate. Graduates can work under supervision in coastal, offshore, and unlimited operational limits as specified in the Maritime New Zealand Seafarer Certification and Operational Limits Framework. The programme covers essential safety, seamanship, navigation, vessel operations, and provides a pathway toward the Advanced Deckhand - Fishing endorsement (ADH-F) Certificate of Competency. Graduates may also receive additional STCW safety certificates.
Course Content
- Safe and sustainable working practices on board
- Effective communication and relationships on vessels
- Personal survival techniques
- Fire prevention and firefighting
- Emergency procedures
- Elementary first aid
- Prevention of marine pollution
- Prevention of shipboard accidents
- Operational factors affecting vessel and crew safety
- Marine (nautical) terms
- Orders and commands in fishing operations
- Dangers associated with fishing work
- Deck appliance handling and maintenance
- Personal protective equipment use
- Assisting with vessel navigation (navigation aids, watchkeeping duties)
- Understanding vessel construction, stability, and seaworthiness
- Equipment purpose and handling
- Basic seamanship (splicing ropes, mooring, anchoring, towing)
What you need to know first
Open entry
Preference given to those with New Zealand Certificate in Maritime Crewing (Level 2)
Preference for applicants employed or seeking employment on aquaculture or commercial fishing vessels
Evidence of English language competency may be required if English is not first language
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Fisheries
Maritime/Shipping
Seafaring
Future employment opportunities might be
Fishing deckhand
General commercial fishing vessels
Passenger vessel crew (restricted or near coastal waters)
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Programmes span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.