Host / Deckhand - TSS Earnslaw & Spirit of Queenstown

Step aboard two of Queenstown's most iconic vessels - the historic TSS Earnslaw, affectionately known as the "Lady of the Lake," and the modern Spirit of Queenstown. We're looking for a dynamic individual to join our team in a unique blended role that combines the seamanship of a Deckhand with the hospitality finesse of a Host.

About The Role

As a Host/Deckhand, you'll be at the heart of delivering unforgettable experiences on Lake Whakatipu. Whether you're assisting with vessel operations or creating warm, welcoming moments for our guests, your role is all about safety, service, and storytelling.

Onboard The TSS Earnslaw, You'll Help Navigate This Century-old Steamship Across The Lake To Walter Peak High Country Farm. On The Spirit Of Queenstown, You'll Support Scenic Cruises That Showcase The Region's Natural Beauty. Your Time Will Be Split Between

• Deckhand Duties: Supporting safe vessel operations, assisting with berthing and mooring, maintaining cleanliness and safety standards, and ensuring smooth sailing.
• Host Responsibilities: Providing exceptional food and beverage service, welcoming guests, setting up and maintaining service areas, and creating memorable guest interactions both onboard and at Walter Peak.

What are we looking for?

• Duty Manager Certificate
• 1 year Food & Beverage Experience
• 6 months Deckhand Experience
• Proven experience in hosting and guest service, including barista and bar operations
• Excellent people skills and clear, confident communication
• Understanding of Health & Safety protocols relevant to maritime environments
• Knowledge of food safety standards (preferred)
• QDC with passenger endorsement or SRL with passenger endorsement (preferred)

What do you get out of this?

• This is a full time permanent position with guaranteed fortnightly hours
• Enjoy some incredible staff perks! Take a friend along to experience RealNZ's unforgettable adventures, either for free or at a fantastic discount. Explore thrilling white water rafting, explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, cruise Milford and Doubtful Sound, and discover Rakiura. It's an amazing opportunity to experience the best of New Zealand without breaking the bank!
• Medical insurance cover
• Free Cardrona x Treble Cone ski/bike pass

Additional Details

Location: Queenstown

Positions Available: 1

Guaranteed hours per fortnight: 60

Employment Type: Permanent, Full Time

Hourly rate: $27 - $30

Real People, Real Places, Real Experiences. Welcome To RealNZ.

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.

How To Apply

Click Apply now to be taken to our careers page

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 # 44891 Posted on 05 Nov 2026 Closes on 26 Nov 2026 17:00 Location(s) Queenstown Expertise Food & Beverage Attendants, Deckhands, Host, Launch Masters Job level(s) Experienced Work type(s) Permanent - Full Time More details (document) PD_Deckhand & Host (May-25).pdf

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