Boat Host - Abel Tasman National Park

Love the outdoors, working with people, and life on the water?

Join the team at Wilsons Abel Tasman National Park Ltd and help visitors from around the world enjoy unforgettable experiences in the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park.

Wilsons Abel Tasman is a family-owned business, pioneering visitor services in the National Park since 1977. We are passionate about delivering exceptional experiences and proud to offer opportunities for people wanting to build careers in hospitality and the maritime industry.

ABOUT THE ROLE Attitude is everything — we provide full training across all aspects of the role.

Our fast, safe, and comfortable Vista cruising catamarans provide the best cruising experience in the Abel Tasman National Park. With strong systems, experienced skippers, and supportive training, this role offers an excellent opportunity to grow, regardless of previous experience.

Interested in starting your maritime career? Our skippers provide hands-on training and mentorship, and we can assist you in gaining valuable sea time towards Maritime New Zealand’s Skipper Restricted Limits qualification.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Passenger check-in, ticketing, and customer meet-and-greet services at Kaiteriteri and throughout Abel Tasman National Park.
• Food and beverage service and onboard stock management.
• Providing helpful and accurate information to passengers.
• Assisting with park information and freight transfers.
• Daily vessel cleaning and maintenance.
• Operating dinghies for passenger transfers and vessel refuelling.
• Driving tractors to launch and retrieve dinghies.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Good computer skills.
• Restricted driver licence or higher.
• Valid First Aid certificate, or willingness to obtain one.
• Coastguard Day Skipper qualification (or willingness to obtain it). This can be completed through a 16-hour online course.
• NZ Residency or a valid NZ work visa.

PREFERRED ATTRIBUTES

• A positive, team-focused attitude.
• The ability to manage fluctuating workloads.
• A good sense of humour under pressure.
• A genuine desire to provide outstanding experiences for guests and teammates alike.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Full training and support.
• Opportunities to build maritime experience and sea time.
• A unique workplace in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful national parks.
• A supportive and professional team environment.

POSITION DETAILS

• Full-time fixed-term position.
• Starting late August 2026.
• Ending March or April 2027, depending on visitor demand.
• Weekend and public holiday work is required.

Applications close Sunday, 19 July 2026.

Interviews will be held on Monday, 27 July and Tuesday, 28 July 2026.

Wilsons Abel Tasman National Park Ltd is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for employees and guests. In the interests of health and safety, successful applicants are required to undertake a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.

Learn more about our experiences at http://www.abeltasman.co.nz

If you are interested in joining our team or for further information about the position, please email your CV and cover letter or questions to our Operations Manager, Shay Gill: Shay@abeltasman.co.nz