Rupert – Volunteer Leading Hand

How long have you been volunteering for the Trust?

I have recently completed my first voyage as a leading hand on the Spirit of New Zealand in April this year (Voyage 891). I did my trainee voyage back in October of 2020 on V805 where we visited some familiar and some new spots. Some of the crew who were working or volunteering then were on my first voyage as well, and it was awesome to share this experience with them again. I’m hoping to jump back on the ship as a Watch Assistant next year.

How did your Spirit experience shaped other parts of your life (if applicable)

The 10 days on Voyage 805 were unlike anything I’d ever experienced. I stepped onto a ship with 39 people my age from all over the country. I knew no one and no one knew what to expect.

I was enthusiastic about most things outdoors however I had never been a keen sailor until I boarded the ship that day. During those 10 days, I developed a passion for the ocean and was left wanting so much more!

I met amazing people and was fortunate enough to see some pretty extraordinary things - dolphins, sharks, orcas and bioluminescence, to name a few. This was all in the Hauraki Gulf. It was an eye-opener for what our country offers and inspired me to study Outdoor Education at AUT. Since that first voyage, I have appreciated our environment so much more.

What prompted you to want to volunteer for us?

I wanted to volunteer after having awesome Leading Hands on my trainee voyage. They inspired me to do it all again and help make someone else’s experience as good as mine. Of course, as an outdoor enthusiast, I was itching to get back out on the water, on a beautiful ship and meet some cool people. I’m now halfway through my Outdoor Education degree and I also thought volunteering was a great way to get some work experience!

What do you love most about volunteering for Spirit

Being part of the crew was one of the highlights as a leading hand. Each crew member has an important role on the ship. Having a sense of responsibility, working with the ship master, engineer, the mates and the cook was really exciting. I loved having meals in the crew mess and understanding the processes on the ship as well. Being a part of a team that contributes to the value of the experience is a really special opportunity.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering for us?

If you get the opportunity to volunteer, do it. If you want to become a leading hand and you love climbing the rigging or riding on the tender it is a must! Being a volunteer on Spirit is an extremely important role as you are responsible for the trainee’s experience. When you are able to help provide an unforgettable experience for someone else it is one of the best feelings.

I live in Auckland so I made my own way to the ship, but if you are from anywhere else you can do it all again without paying for flights! So why not?