Navy shows opportunities for Marlborough student

The Year 12 student last week took part in the School to Seas Camp, which is designed to empower young people with confidence and curiosity about careers in our Navy and the wider maritime industry.

Sixteen female students took on a raft of Navy experiences, including a tour of HMNZ Ships Aotearoa, Te Kaha and Taupo, talked to sailors about life at sea, learned to tie knots, how to board vessels, and explored the Navy’s dive unit HMNZS Matataua. 

There was also a visit to the Torpedo Bay Naval Museum and of course daily physical training sessions.

Mikayla, who has been interested in the Navy since she was in Year 10, said the camp was 10 out of 10.

The best part was being able to talk to people in different trades about their careers.

“Hearing about the cool places they had been was a highlight of the camp.”

She enjoyed meeting other students who were also interested in the Navy. They started the camp as strangers but many had become friends. 

“Hopefully I’ll be able to work with them in the Navy in the future.” 

Mikayla said her parents both joined the Navy straight after school and about five years ago her father switched over to the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), where he is now a warrant officer based at RNZAF Base Woodbourne 

She was aware of the challenges, but there were also opportunities to travel to many varied and interesting places. 

“It can be physically demanding and does require time away from your home and family, and then there are the strict rules. 

“But one thing that surprised me was the amount of different opportunities the Navy has to offer. There are a lot of qualifications that can help you once you leave also. 

“A career in the Navy, or NZDF, gives you valuable skills, qualifications and strong personal discipline, as well as learning teamwork. You also get opportunities to travel as well as represent New Zealand.”