activities,” George says. “This came in handy in my naval training, as one of the key lessons
could be seen as dry – interesting. This was most important because entry into university engineering required good Calculus grades.” After his degree, George completed several courses before being posted to Australia in 2020 for his Marine Engineering Application Course. He was then posted to HMNZS Canterbury , where he was on standby for humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations, helicopter work and a supply run to Tokelau before a brief stint in MIQ border facilities and a move to North America. “Within the Navy, I have had the opportunity to fly in helicopters, and walk underneath ships in dry dock. I have also really
enjoyed the challenges and increased responsibility of being the Damage Control Officer, controlling the response to a fire or flood on board. During my time in Canada, I have explored British Columbia and enjoyed port visits to Seattle and Vancouver. Being posted overseas is one of the highlights of my naval career.” George now wants to complete an operational deployment on a frigate and develop his project management skills with a shore- based role in engineering support. However, international liaison roles for the Royal New Zealand Navy are firmly on his horizon.
they aim to impart is how to effectively manage time.” He also recalls a wealth of
opportunities to try new things at College, including sailing, debating and lighting and sound for Drama, along with the positive impact of two teachers. “Julius Housemaster Ben Vink was excellent, routinely going into bat for my interests. I have no doubt that he was a big influence as to why I was selected as a Prefect,” George says. “Statistics and Calculus teacher Ian Stevenson made topics – that
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