Henderson student sees career potential after Navy camp

West Auckland student Naiah Whitefield can see herself joining the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) after experiencing both the flames and flooding a sailor might be expected to battle at sea.

22 October, 2026

Naiah, in Year 13 at Henderson High School, was one of 39 senior college students who attended the RNZN’s “School to Seas” programme during September and October at Devonport Naval Base in Auckland.

The separate tane and wāhine four-day camps showcased Navy life and career options over a multitude of marine disciplines.

The students were able to meet sailors, explore career pathways and take part in experiences designed to challenge them and open their eyes to possibilities once they finished school.

Activities included a powhiri at Te Taua Moana marae, ship and base tours, rides on Waitematā Harbour in a Navy rigid-hulled inflatable boat, seeing how recruits lived and worked and hands-on practical tasks at the Sea Safety Training Squadron.

At the latter the students donned firefighting equipment to tackle a set fire, before facing the challenges of the Navy’s flood simulator.

Naiah says they were the best activities.

“We kitted up in two pairs of coveralls, gumboots, gloves and a head mask to use a CO2 extinguisher to put out a fire.

“Then we put on our water kits and entered the flood simulator where we had to wedge timber into water bursts – or use our bodies – try and hold back the water filling the room.”

A young woman wearing a School to Seas branded blue t-shirt smiles to the camera on a wharf.

Two students are sprayed by water in the Navy’s flood simulator.

Students aboard a Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat wave in front of the Auckland city landscape.

Henderson High School student Naiah Whiteman during the School to Seas programme at Devonport Naval Base.

Naiah said the camp gave her an insight into the lifestyle her grandfather might have experienced when he undertook National Military Service.

“Learning the rules, ranks and requirements was tricky at first but there was so much support with people willing to show us how things worked.”

Naiah said she could really see the possibilities and believed the Navy had what it takes for a worthwhile career.

“The camp gave me the opportunity to meet new people and create strong bonds with the others,” she said.

“I can see how the Navy gives you essential life skills and allows you to serve your country with pride. I get to learn a trade and be a problem-solver.

“It sets you up with a stable income, accommodation, education, healthcare and training – so many advantages in today’s world.”

Find out more about School to Seas(external link)