“I wanted to give mussel farming a go because there are career pathways. I spoke to a few of the lads at Waimana and they took the time to talk to me about the job opportunities”
Deckhand - Waimana Marine
Charting his course: Ben Naylor's aquaculture journey
Five months into his aquaculture career, Ben Naylor already sees his future is definitely on the water.
Straight out of school Ben approached Waimana Marine for work, and Operations Manager Alistair Simmons and Director Simon Pooley encouraged him to get some sea time.
"So, I did a seven-week trip on a deep-sea vessel and learned a lot about the lifestyle," says Ben. "When I came back, I checked back in with Waimana and they had an entry-level deckhand position available, so I jumped at it."
Ben's interest in aquaculture started with a fascination for marine biology at school, but it was the prospect of a long-term career that ultimately attracted him to mussel farming.
"I wanted to give mussel farming a go because there are career pathways. I spoke to a few of the lads at Waimana and they took the time to talk to me about the job opportunities."
Working aboard the Morning Star has given Ben an appreciation for the variety of work that comes with farming mussels in the Marlborough Sounds.
"With Waimana, you do a bit of everything. It's very hands-on and every day is different."
The work can be demanding, with four days on four days off and shifts that can stretch well beyond a standard working day.
"It was definitely harder than I expected," he says. "I knew a little about the mussel industry, but I've learned so much more than I thought I would."
The challenge has also helped him grow.
"I've learned a lot about the job, but also about myself and what I'm capable of. I've realised that if I put my mind to something, I can achieve it, even when it looks like a big task."
Ben credits his crew for much of that progress.
"It's a really good crew to be part of. They've taught me a lot during the time I've been here."
He's also been encouraged by watching fellow crew members develop their own careers.
"I've seen two of the crew complete their skipper's licences, which has shown me the pathway I want to take."
When he's not working, Ben spends his time relaxing, hitting the gym, catching up with friends, or heading back out on the water fishing with his dad.
"I'm pretty much always on a boat," he laughs.
Looking back on his first few months, Ben is confident he made the right choice.
"Waimana is a great company to work for and I'm very lucky to be part of such a good crew," he says. "I've learned a huge amount already and I'm excited about what's next."