NZ Certificate in Domestic Maritime Operations (Restricted Limits) (Level 4 )

A key component on the pathway towards Skipper Restricted Limits (SRL)

Aim

The aim is to qualify and train individuals to the regulatory standards required to skipper, undertake maintenance, and safely operate boats within the limits specified in the qualification and prepare these people for the regulatory Seafarer Certification (SRL). The qualification is intended for persons working as deck crew, or persons with suitable experience as skipper on a recreational vessel, who wish to progress to the role of skipper on a restricted limits vessel.

Completion of this qualification is a pre-requisite to applying for a Maritime New Zealand Skipper Restricted Limits Certificate. Award of the Skipper Restricted Limits Certificate by Maritime New Zealand may also require the completion of a logbook, an oral exam and ancillary certificates.

Graduate Profile

Graduates of this qualification will be able to:

1. Plan a passage and navigate using electronic and non-electronic navigational systems.

2. Operate a restricted limits vessel at sea.

3. Maintain legal compliance on a restricted limits vessel.

4. Maintain safety and respond to emergencies on a restricted limits vessel.

5. Operate vessel propulsion, auxiliary machinery and systems.

6. Maintain vessel propulsion, auxiliary machinery and systems (from 2505 version 1).

Education / Pathway

This qualification can build on the skills developed in:

• New Zealand Certificate in Domestic Maritime Crewing (Level 3) [Ref: 2895]

Graduates wishing to continue with domestic maritime operations can progress to:

• New Zealand Certificate in Domestic Maritime Operations (Coastal and Offshore) (Level 4) [Ref: 2892]

Graduates may also progress to qualifications recognised internationally under the Standards for Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW):

• New Zealand Certificate in Maritime Operations (Level 4) with strands in Fishing and Watchkeeping [Ref: 2513]

• New Zealand Certificate in Maritime Operations (Level 5) [Ref: 2512]

• New Zealand Diploma in Nautical Science (Level 6) [Ref: 2515] (from 2505 version 1)

Employment / Pathway

Holders of this qualification will have the skills and knowledge required to work as a skipper on vessels operating within the restricted limits as defined in the New Zealand Seafarer Certification and Operational Limits Framework. Typical roles may be as skipper on work boats, water taxis or small ferries under 12 metres in length and carrying fewer than 19 passengers. With additional training and sea time, graduates may progress to roles such as:

• Skipper Coastal/Offshore

• Mate or Master Fishing Vessel

• Watchkeeper Deck < 500GT

• Master < 500GT

• Watchkeeper Deck - Unlimited, which is the mandatory prerequisite to Master of a Foreign Going Ship (Master Mariner) qualifications (from 2505 version 1).

Request the Brochure

If you'd like further information, please click the button below to request a brochure.

Next start date - Sept 2026

The course is run in cohorts and the next intake will start Sept 2026. If you are interested in applying, please click the button below to request the relevant documentation.

Programme Information

Role:

Skipper's (master's) functions and duties on:

• passenger and non-passenger ships less than 12 metres overall, carrying up to 19 passengers within restricted limits (which includes both enclosed and inshore limits).

• fishing vessels less than 12 metres overall, in enclosed, inshore and inshore fishing limits. (requires Maritime NZ SRL certificate).

Delivery Options:

• BLENDED: Distance (home-based study), classroom and onboard practical hours.

• The course is delivered in 4 blocks covering: Marine Engineering, Navigational Aids, MRROC and Maritime Operations.

   • 2026 Fees: $1,999

Funding Options Available:

• Fees-Free*

• CBE Scholarship*

*Check your eligibility HERE