Our People
Work in paradise. Sustainably farm the world’s best seafood. Protect our waterways. Feed the future.
Explore aquaculture
Are you interested in:
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Innovating for the future
Kia auahatia te anamate
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Collaboration and teamwork
Te mahi ngātahi
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Conservation
Kaitiakitanga
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Working outdoors
Te mahi ki te taiao
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Marine science
Te pūtaiao moana
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Sustainable seafood
Kia tiaki mauroatia ngā kaimoana
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Protecting our oceans
Kia tiakina te moana
Want to learn more about a career in aquaculture?
Wanting to study ?
Meet our graduates
Tūtaki Mai Ki Ngā Tauira O Mua
Hear from those who've turned their passion for the ocean into thriving careers in New Zealand's aquaculture industry
“I’ve always loved the ocean, and being able to explore this passion while at school helped me realise I wanted to turn it into a career.”
— Emma Whiteman, Farm Technician at Moana
If you’re passionate about science and the environment, this is a fantastic field to pursue”
— Jimmy Mcilraith, Research Aquaculture Technician at SpatNZ
“No matter what your interest is, if you’re prepared to give it a go there are so many options,” she says. “Whether it’s driving boats, diving, or working with macroalgae, there are heaps of ways to enter the industry.
— Kelly Dockery - Sustainability Officer at Aotea Marine Farms
It takes a team of 3,000 to produce our Greenshell mussels, King salmon and Pacific oysters.
We’re driving vessels, scuba diving around farms and nurturing our animals in some of the most stunning regions of our country – and there’s unlimited opportunities ahead.
The world can’t get enough of our sustainably farmed seafood, and to meet the demand the industry is expected to grow exponentially in the coming years.
Help unlock this opportunity for New Zealand, in a range of permanent and seasonal roles, in areas such as boat crews, on-water animal husbandry, engineering yards, dive teams, hatcheries, research labs, and seafood processing facilities.
For more information about training and job opportunities across Te Tau Ihu (Top of the South), you can also visit the Marine Farming Association website.
Leadership Development Programmes
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Emerging Leader Awards
AQNZ's Emerging Leader Awards recognize rising stars in aquaculture. Winners receive a year of one-on-one mentorship with experienced industry leaders, culminating in an invitation to the Evolving Leaders Hui. This programme is designed for those on a pathway to leadership or currently in a leadership role for less than 12 months.
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Evolving Leaders Hui
The Evolving Leaders Hui is a professional development programme that brings together new leaders (1-5 years in industry, 1-3 years in their first leadership role) for strategic growth and connection. Through workshops and peer learning, participants gain the tools, confidence, and network they need to thrive in their leadership journey.