Maritime · NZ Certificate in Domestic Maritime Operations (Level 4)
The Maritime NZ approved training course for the SRL licence — skipper commercial vessels up to 12 metres, working up to 12 nautical miles offshore. Delivered in Te Anau, Bluff and Picton in 2026.
The NZ Certificate in Domestic Maritime Operations (Level 4) is commonly known in the NZ maritime sector as the SRL — Skipper Restricted Limits.
This licence is the minimum requirement for skippers of vessels up to 12 m (or 24 m with further endorsement), working up to 12 nautical miles offshore. It is the Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) approved training course you are required to complete before sitting the MNZ oral examination — on passing, you are awarded the SRL licence, an essential step in advancing your maritime career.
The programme combines theory and practical training for work in the maritime transport, tourism and fishing sectors. Typical roles include skippering vessels engaged in aquaculture (mussel and salmon farms), water taxis, tour boats, cray and pāua fishing, and work boats.
| Location | Course start | Block course | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Te Anau | 26 January 2026 | 15 June – 17 July 2026 | Enquire |
| Bluff | 9 February 2026 | 17 July – 28 August 2026 | Enquire |
| Picton | 4 May 2026 | 21 September – 23 October 2026 | Enquire |
Start date marks the beginning of your guided self-directed study. The five-week block course and MNZ oral exam follow.
Phase 1: 18 weeks of self-directed study at home or at work, with weekly support from your dedicated tutor — available on demand when you need guidance.
Phase 2: 5-week intensive block course combining classroom theory and practical onboard training.
MNZ exam: the Maritime NZ oral examination is scheduled immediately on completion of the block course, while the material is fresh in your mind.
The SRL programme is intended for people already employed in the maritime sector, or about to begin working in it. With further sea time, SRL graduates may progress to:
Established in 2000, SIS Training holds the NZQA's highest rating (Category 1) and is an approved Maritime NZ training provider for SRL, MRROC and VHF qualifications.
An endorsed Certificate of Completion is awarded at the conclusion of the course. Once you complete the SRL training programme and pass your MNZ oral examination, we collate and prepare all required documentation for your SRL licence application to Maritime NZ.
Questions about dates, content or which course fits? Ask us anything.
