Onboard Cafe Bar Host

Host – Island Direct Full-time and Casual Roles Available

Join our Crew on the Hauraki Gulf

Island Direct is a growing passenger ferry operator connecting Auckland's CBD with the beautiful Waiheke Island. As we expand our fleet and services, we're seeking enthusiastic, safety-focused Qualified Deckhands who take pride in the service they deliver and thrive in a fast-paced marine environment.

The Role

As a Host, you are the face of Island Direct – the first team member passengers see when boarding and the last when they leave. Your role combines hospitality and safety, ensuring every journey is safe, welcoming, and memorable.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet, scan, and board passengers in a friendly and professional manner.
• Ensure the passenger manifest is accurate and all bookings are up to date.
• Assist the Skipper with safe vessel operations.
• Support the Deckhand with lines, ropes, and gangway handling during berthing and departures.
• Operate the onboard café and bar, including preparing and serving coffee, food, and beverages.
• Maintain the cleanliness and presentation of the café, passenger areas, and vessel.
• Ensure the proper use, cleaning, and maintenance of onboard hospitality equipment.
• Prepare consistently high-quality coffee and beverages.
• Train and support other crew members in hospitality procedures and equipment use.
• Deliver exceptional customer service while ensuring passenger comfort and safety.
• Comply with all health and safety, food safety, and alcohol licensing requirements.

Skills & Experience

• Current Duty Manager's Certificate and LCQ (mandatory).
• Barista or hospitality experience is highly desirable.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Positive team player with a can-do attitude.
• Able to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, on-water environment.
• Flexible and available to work rostered shifts, including weekends and public holidays.

Roster and Hours

Island Direct operates a rotating shift roster to support our daily ferry services across the Hauraki Gulf. Island Direct operates an extended service schedule, requiring shift availability from 5:00am until 2:00am. This rotation includes coverage for weekends and public holidays. Additional hours may be available based on operational demand

What We Offer

• Competitive remuneration commensurate with experience
• A supportive, professional team committed to excellence
• The opportunity to work on one of New Zealand's most iconic waterways
• Complimentary hot beverages before, during, and after your shift, plus 50% off café items
• Free ferry travel for leisure use (full-time employees)
• Car parking at Te Whero Island on working days
• Ongoing training and development opportunities as our fleet and operations grow

We look forward to hearing from you.