Becoming a Recognised Surveyor

Read about surveyor recognition and how to apply to become a Recognised Surveyor.

The Recognition Framework 

To survey ships and ship equipment in New Zealand you must hold a Certificate of Surveyor Recognition. 

The recognition framework outlines: 

  • the surveyor recognition categories that Maritime NZ defines 

  • the qualifications and experience needed for each category. 

Before you apply for recognition, learn about the recognition framework and survey requirements, such as under the Maritime Operator Safety System.  

 

Apply to become a Recognised Surveyor 

Apply for recognition using this step-by-step process.

 

Before applying 

Read the relevant guidelines about surveyor categories and how we assess competency. 

 

Surveying under MOSS guidelines
PDF: 201 kB, 11 pages
Download (opens in new tab)
Applying for recognition as a Recognised Surveyor
PDF: 201 kB, 11 pages
Download (opens in new tab)

Complete the forms and prepare your documents  

Complete the two application forms, gather your supporting documents and identification photographs, and send them to Maritime NZ. 

Maritime NZ will require the following documentation to accept your application:  

  • Your completed Application for a new surveyor or renewal of existing recognition form: 

 

Application for a new surveyor or renewal of existing form
PDF: 340 kB, 8 pages
Download (opens in new tab)
  • A copy of your updated CV. 

  • A list of the relevant vessels you have surveyed. 

  • A completed fit and proper person form, with two verified identification documents sighted and signed by a Trusted Referee:  

 

Fit and Proper Person application form
PDF: 332 kB, 11 pages
Download (opens in new tab)
  • Your Ministry of Justice criminal record check.  

Sending your application to Maritime NZ 

Preferably, you will email your documentation to Maritime NZ at: [email protected] 

 

By courier:   

Regulatory Licensing Operators  

Maritime NZ   

1 Grey Street   

Wellington 6011   

New Zealand  

 

By post:   

Regulatory Licensing Operators   

Maritime NZ   

PO Box 25620  

Wellington 6140   

New Zealand 

 

Wait for confirmation 

We will send you an email or letter to confirm we have received your application. 

 

Pay the application fee 

You will be invoiced by Maritime NZ. Please see the fees below. 

 

Application assessment 

Maritime NZ will assess your application. We may ask for more information or invite you to sit an exam or complete a practical assessment. 

 

Certificate issue 

 

If your application is successful, we will issue your certificate of recognition. 

Depending on the time spent on the application you may receive a follow up invoice at an hourly rate. 

 

Recognition fees 

All charges are in New Zealand dollars and include goods and services tax (GST).

 

Surveyor recognition 

 

Service provided 

Fixed fee 

Hourly rate  

$245 

Applying for recognition 

 

 

Certificate of surveyor recognition all DA, IC & P categories 

$968 

Other recognition services 

 

 

Extension of scope of surveyor recognition 

 

 

Renewal of certificate of surveyor recognition 

$710 

Replacement certificates and licences 

$368 

 

 

Survey recognition (other specialist roles) 

 

Service provided 

Hourly rate $245 

Applying for recognition 

 

Compass adjuster 

Authorised person certificate 

Appointment of overseas surveyor