A deckhand works on the deck assisting with the vessel’s activities, working and maintaining the fishing gear, and handling and sorting the catch. The activities will depend on the size of the vessel, whether you are working on an inshore or deep-water vessel and the species being targeted.

Deckhands may do some or all of the following:

• assist with berthing, casting off and anchoring vessels
• assist with operating, maintaining and cleaning vessels and equipment such as nets and ropes
• cast and haul in fishing nets, lines and pots
• process and pack fish
• help passengers on and off vessels, and look after cargo or passengers' baggage
• prepare and serve food and drink
• provide information and commentary for passengers
• carry out emergency drills and procedures.
   

Entry Requirements

You need to be 16 or older. 

There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a deckhand, however, english and maths to at least NCEA level 1 are useful.  Deckhands need to be:

• able to work well as part of a team
• disciplined, with good attention to detail
• alert, and able to remain calm under pressure and in an emergency
   

Career Progression

If you think life at sea is for you, the next step is to get your Advanced Deckhand certification and become a Qualified Deckhand.