Founded through the partnership of Galilee Mission, Stella Maris, and Mission to Seafarers, we provide practical, emotional, and spiritual care to all crew members—regardless of nationality, background, or faith. Our work is grounded in hospitality, dignity, and a deep respect for life at sea.
Supporting Seafarers with Compassion, Care, and Connection
At the United Seafarers Mission in Tauranga, we offer a warm, welcoming space for seafarers of all backgrounds to rest, reconnect, and recharge. Backed by dedicated volunteers and rooted in a legacy of Christian cooperation, we exist to support the wellbeing of those who spend their lives at sea.
Who We Are
Mission Statement
"Seafarers are the backbone of global trade, yet they often face isolation, long working hours, and limited shore access. The United Seafarers' Mission offers a 'home away from home,' fostering well-being and dignity for crews of all nationalities and faiths."
A Unique Ecumenical Partnership
We unite three historic maritime ministries to provide holistic care:
Stella Maris
Catholic maritime ministry
The Mission to Seafarers
Anglican-founded global welfare organization
Galilee Mission
Local NZ seafarers’ support since 1959
Together, we combine our strengths to serve those who move the world’s goods.
Our History
The United Seafarers’ Mission is an ecumenical organisation, bringing together support from a range of Christian traditions to serve the welfare of visiting seafarers.
Founded through the cooperation of three mission organisations — Stella Maris, Galilee Mission, and Mission to Seafarers — we continue to honour these roots through enduring partnerships with them, as well as with Port Welfare.
Memoirs
The stories of those who helped shape our mission live on through the voices of Mary Wilson and Ruth Haar. Their personal reflections offer a glimpse into the heart of our history — the people, the challenges, and the unwavering dedication to the welfare of seafarers.
"After 17 years serving as a Presbyterian minister in the Bay of Plenty, I was invited to take on a new calling—one that still centres around people, care, and connection, but in a very different setting..."
— Revd Iain Dickson
United Seafarers Mission Manager
A Personal Note from the Manager – United Seafarers Mission, Tauranga
In August 2023, I stepped into the role of Manager at the United Seafarers Mission in Tauranga. It’s been a deeply rewarding transition, and I continue to be inspired by the resilience, humility, and humanity of the men and women who come through our doors—many of them far from home, family, and familiarity.
Each day at the Mission, we see firsthand just how important this work is. For the thousands of seafarers passing through the Port of Tauranga every month, our Centre may be the only place where they can sit down for a quiet moment, connect with loved ones, or speak with someone who simply sees them as a person—not just a crew number.
I’m honoured to work alongside an incredible team of volunteers and staff who bring warmth, dignity, and practical support to every interaction. Whether it’s through a simple cup of coffee, a minibus ride into town, or a quiet chat after a long voyage, our mission remains the same: to be a place of welcome, care, and kindness for all who come ashore.
– Revd Iain Dickson
Manager, United Seafarers Mission Tauranga
Our Wonderful Volunteers
The United Seafarers’ Mission relies on a dedicated team of volunteers to provide care and support for visiting seafarers from around the world. When we say dedicated, we truly mean it—some of our volunteers have been serving faithfully for over 20 years.
Our mission wouldn’t be possible without them.
We’re always looking for new people to join the team. Most volunteers commit to one or two shifts per week—though some do more simply because they find the work so rewarding.
Currently, we operate three volunteer shifts each day:
- 11:00am – 2:00pm
- 2:00pm – 5:30pm
- 5:30pm – 9:00pm
Whether you’re interested in helping occasionally or regularly, we’d love to hear from you. Volunteering with us is not only meaningful—it’s a great way to connect with others and make a difference in the lives of those who spend months at sea.
Our Board
Officers
Alex Reid
Interim Chair
Rodger Simmonds
Treasurer
Secretary
Iain Dickson
Manager
Mary Joyce
Assistant Manager
Board Members
Peter Fitzgerald
Stella Maris
David Kontz
Stella Maris
Mark Hassett
Stella Maris
Clark Houltram
Mission to Seafarers
Tony Kippax
Mission to Seafarers
Marcus Wilkins
Mission to Seafarers
Noel Rivett
Galilee
Blair Parker
Galilee
Mary Savill
Galilee