Whitianga, 3 September 2025 - In Whitianga, a small coastal town with a big heart, a unique youth initiative is quietly shaping the next generation of maritime leaders. Since its launch in 2019, the Alan Jackson Memorial Cadetship Programme has been offering local teens a life-changing opportunity to gain marine qualifications, build confidence, and learn the value of teamwork and responsibility.
The programme is a tribute to Alan Jackson, a long-serving Coastguard Whitianga volunteer and sailor who dedicated much of his time to mentoring young people. Alan believed in creating opportunities for youth to develop leadership, responsibility, and confidence on the water - a vision that inspired the cadetship. Following his passing, that vision was brought to life thanks to the commitment of the Whitianga volunteers, the backing of Mercury Bay Area School, and support from Coastguard’s boating education team.
Each year, around 10 cadets aged 15–17 are selected to take part in the 12-week course, which runs from late May to late August. The programme is open to all, with no prior marine experience required. On-water training takes place on Sundays to fit around school commitments, while classroom sessions cover essential qualifications such as VHF radio operation, Day Skipper, First Aid, and in-water survivability.
Tutors Graham Caddy and Peter Hari guide cadets through a well-structured programme, split into morning and afternoon groups. While it mirrors Coastguard’s volunteer deckhand training, it also goes further - helping young people step up with confidence, take on responsibility, and work as a team.
“This isn’t just about boating,” says Graham. “It’s about preparing young people for life. We treat them like young adults, and they rise to the occasion.”
That sense of growth and transformation is echoed by those who have been through the programme.
2025 adet, Milley Pepper, says: “During my Coastguard Cadetship, my greatest challenge was stepping out of my comfort zone and developing the confidence to take the lead in some unfamiliar situations. What I enjoyed most was working closely with a supportive team, learning from each other, and pushing through challenges together. One of the best things I learnt was how quickly things can change at sea. I had a moment during some of our first on water training sessions where I realised how essential trust is in a marine environment. The teamwork, confidence-building, and marine skills I've gained have not only prepared me for future safe boating experiences but also shaped me into a more capable and resilient individual overall. I would recommend to anyone who gets the opportunity to be a part of the Alan Jackson Memorial Cadetship to take it.”
The programme is fully funded, ensuring accessibility for all. Initially supported by Mercury Bay Area School and Coastguard Whitianga, it now receives backing from Waikato Regional Council.
The impact has been profound. Several cadets have gone on to join the New Zealand Navy, others have found work in the marine industry, and some have pursued further education. While volunteering with Coastguard isn’t a requirement, the programme often plants the seed - one former cadet returned as a volunteer before moving overseas.
This year’s Outstanding Cadet Award included a prize of a Coastguard Boatmaster course, reinforcing the programme’s commitment to excellence.
As the 2025 intake concluded on 31st August, Coastguard Whitianga is already looking ahead. With strong community support and a growing legacy, the Alan Jackson Memorial Cadetship programme continues to open doors for young people on the water - creating not just safer boaties, but confident leaders for life.
