Auckland NZ

[JJay]

Hi there

I am 39 live in Auckland NZ and am looking at starting a career in the boating industry.
For the past 22 years I have been banging keys as a computer programmer in a cramped little office, and now I need to move on.
Can anyone offer me advice, I understand I will need to go to a technical college. Am I to old to be an apprentice ?.
Should I volunteer at a boatbuilders yard for a few weeks just to make sure I am in the right area.
My first option is working on the Hull and Deck instead of masts/rigging sails. Apart from that I am not fussy.

All replies appreciated. :)

[RThompson]

Hi JJay,

Have a look at UNITEC, they have a modular boat building course. In any case they would be pretty good to talk to about your situation.

Most boat yards would show you around if you asked them for a tour, it would give you an idea of what its all about. most wouldn't turn down free labour if you are offereing... Another place to try might be various racing yacht campaigns - they are often on tight budgets and would like some volunteer labour.

If you haven't already, get some time onboard a yacht (power or sail - what ever turns you on).

I imagine there are opportunites in the bigger yards (ie shipyards) for computer based work if you were that way inclined. - saves going back to square one.

Good luck,
Rob