Get Involved
FirstMate exists to support fishers and their whānau with advice, useful tools and information, including a support network of dedicated Navigators on the end of the phone. We want New Zealand to have a strong seafood sector with healthy people and businesses. There are many ways to get involved and help us make this vision a reality.
Become a Navigator
Navigators are the backbone of our network, so we are keen to hear from people with a background in any aspect of the seafood sector who are passionate about the wellbeing of fishers and their whānau. This is a paid position and you will be given training and support. You may be required to travel around your region to meet up with people needing your help. Contact us using the form below for further details of what this role entails.
Help as a mentor
Are you an innovator? A business whizz? Keen to mentor young people who see a future for themselves in our sector? We are building a database of experts in all aspects of commercial fishing, aquaculture farming and operating a business, so if you have a particular skill or knowledge that you are willing to share, we would love to hear from you. Send us an email to let us know how your expertise and enthusiasm could benefit others.
Help as a volunteer
Our work benefits hugely from any voluntary help that you can give – whether at local events or with Navigator duties and tasks. We would love to hear from you.
Financial support
Your donation goes directly to helping the seafood community improve their wellbeing.
Email donate@firstmate.org.nz to discuss ways you can support our work, from sponsoring an event or initiative to making a one-off or ongoing donation.
Who we are looking for
Anyone working or volunteering for FirstMate must show empathy, be friendly and non-judgmental, and able to keep personal information confidential. We are a trusted organisation that keeps people at the heart of everything we do.
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I try to take people on their own terms – we don’t all come from the same backgrounds, have the same stresses in life or care about the same things – and to try to understand what makes them tick so that we can better understand each other.”
- Justine Inns, Trustee
Call 0800 ADRIFT for support any day between 7am and 10pm or email info@firstmate.org.nz to access the support you need. We also have a growing library of free resources available for you to access on our website.
