Maritime Operations Manager
Job Description
We're on the lookout for a dynamic and experienced Maritime Operations Manager to take the helm of our vessel operations. If you're passionate about maritime safety, operational excellence, and leading high-performing teams in a guest-focused environment, this is your opportunity to make waves.
As Maritime Operations Manager, you'll be responsible for the seamless execution of RealNZ's maritime operations. You'll ensure compliance with all maritime regulations, lead a skilled team of Launch Masters, and collaborate across departments to deliver safe, efficient, and memorable experiences on the water.
You'll lead the safe and efficient delivery of RealNZ's maritime operations, ensuring compliance with all regulatory and internal standards. You'll coordinate closely with the Asset team to align vessel readiness with operational needs, while supporting workforce planning, crewing, and daily execution. Your leadership will drive continuous improvement, foster a high-performing team culture, and ensure our operations consistently deliver safe, seamless, and memorable guest experiences.
What You'll Bring
Proven leadership experience in maritime or operational environments.
Strong knowledge of Maritime NZ regulations, MTOP/MOSS frameworks, and vessel operations.
Demonstrated ability to lead teams through change and continuous improvement.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Experience in workforce planning and operational resource management.
Skilled in coaching, performance management, and team development.
Highly organised with strong problem-solving abilities.
What's in it for you?
Permanent Full-Time role
Medical insurance included in your remuneration package
Enjoy some incredible staff perks! Along with a FREE Cardrona/Treble Cone season pass, bring a friend along to experience RealNZ's unforgettable adventures at a fantastic discount. Explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, cruise Milford and Doubtful Sound, dine at Walter Peak and discover Rakiura. It's an amazing opportunity to experience the best of New Zealand without breaking the bank
Real people, real places, real experiences. Welcome to Real.
When's the best time to join the Real whānau? Now's good.
We're the conservation business that's enabled by tourism. We're helping the world, one guest at a time, fall in love with conservation. We're inspiring people to leave their places in better conditions than when they found them. We channel a guest-centric approach that fuels our genuine promise to deliver Aotearoa's most unforgettable experiences.
It's our workplace environment that makes careers at RealNZ more exciting than the regular job. Working for Real could mean you're based anywhere between a secluded island, a scenic fiord, and a snow-capped maunga. Our people, places, and workdays are a great and diverse mixture. It keeps us on our toes and adds value and passion to our work.
At RealNZ, we're committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Guided by our values of Pono (Keep it real) and He waka eke noa (We're all in this together), we embrace and celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences that make our team stronger. Everyone is welcome here.
How to apply
Please note that we will be interviewing candidates as they apply, and if the right person is found, we may close the role off to any further applications.
Job Details
Company
RealNZ
Reference #
43811
Posted on
04 Aug 2026
Closes on
08 Sep 2026 15:00
Location(s)
Bluff, Doubtful Sound, Manapouri, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Stewart Island
Expertise
Manager - Operations, Launch Masters
Job level(s)
Experienced, Management
Work type(s)
Permanent - Full Time
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