New Zealand Certificate in Fishing Vessel Crewing (Level 3)
Fisheries
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Gain the skills required to work as a supervised deckhand on fishing vessels in New Zealand and internationally, including basic safety and seamanship training. Graduates can progress toward the Advanced Deckhand - Fishing endorsement through Maritime New Zealand.
NZ$1,766
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Windermere Campus, Tauranga
It will take a total of 50 weeks
NZ$1,766
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Demonstrate safe and sustainable working practices
Apply safety protocols, emergency procedures, and sustainable behaviours on board fishing vessels to protect crew and marine environments.
Contribute to onboard communications and relationships
Effectively communicate and collaborate with crew to support vessel operations and enhance safety.
Assist with vessel navigation at support level
Support watchkeeping duties and the use of navigation aids under supervision.
About This Course
This Level 3 qualification prepares you for work as a fishing vessel crew member, opening doors to employment opportunities in New Zealand and offshore. It is an approved training course leading to an internationally recognised advanced deckhand fishing certificate and supports application for the MNZ Advanced Deckhand - Fishing endorsement. The programme covers safe vessel operations, personal survival, firefighting, first aid, vessel navigation, seamanship, and sustainability practices. Graduates are equipped to work under supervision in a range of maritime operational limits.
Course Content
- Safe and sustainable working practices on board fishing vessels
- Effective onboard communications and relationships
- Personal survival techniques
- Fire prevention and firefighting
- Emergency procedures
- Elementary first aid
- Prevention of marine pollution and shipboard accidents
- Nautical terms and orders used in fishing operations
- Hazards and dangers associated with fishing
- Maintenance of deck appliances and personal protection equipment
- Support-level vessel navigation and watchkeeping duties
- Fishing vessel construction, stability, and seaworthiness
- Handling and maintenance of fishing equipment
- Seamanship skills: splicing ropes, mooring, anchoring, and towing operations
Entry Requirements
Open entry; no minimum academic requirements.
You must be employed in the fishing industry.
Preference for applicants with New Zealand Certificate in Maritime Crewing (Level 2) or those employed/seeking employment on an aquaculture or fishing vessel.
English language: IELTS Academic or General 5.0 (no band lower than 5) or NZ Certificate in English Language Level 3 or NZQA English proficiency outcomes.
Build towards these roles
Fishing DeckhandMaritime Crew MemberGeneral Deckhand
Build skills in these industries
FisheriesMaritimeAquaculture
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. Courses span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.
