BREAKING NEWS! FirstMate: Proud Winners of the ACC Workplace and Wellbeing Awared at the 2024 Seafood Stars Awards

Southland - Murihiku / Riverton - Aparima / Fiordland

A region that is world-renowned for its oyster, blue cod and cray fisheries. Pat and Gordon have decades of relevant experience between them and are well-placed to help you find the support or advice you need.

News and events

To stay up to date with the latest events in your region follow us on our facebook page.

Sorry, there are no news or events to display right now.

Local Navigators

Pat Nyhon

Southland - Murihiku / Riverton - Aparima / Fiordland

I started fishing in 1987, crewing on inshore trawl, crayfish and oyster boats out of Bluff. I got my CLM in Dunedin and began skippering a cod, cray and tuna vessel, and eventually ended up with two of my own trawlers, Antares and Cressy. These days, I still operate Cressy myself, trawling from 20m out to 500m. I’ve been a member of the executive committee of the NZ Federation of Commercial Fishermen since 2017.

I’m married, with 3 children and 3 grandchildren. Apart from fishing, my hobbies are riding Harleys and spending time with my family and mates.


Richard Langdon

Stewart Island - Rakiura

I began my fishing career at Ward Beach in the 1970s as a bait boy. I enjoyed cray fishing there and at Cape Campbell, but I didn't have the background to be successful.

In 1979, I moved to Stewart Island to pāua dive, left in 1996 and then returned in 2016 for the 50th anniversary of the Oban Volunteer Fire Brigade, taking a job with Southern Seafoods growing oyster spat. I am still growing oysters here today.

I know the black dog well and know how important it is to get the right type of help. I’m also a FirstMate Navigator because I want to give back to the seafood community.

I know how tough our industry can be, and I have plenty of experience in helping people in challenging real-life situations. Hit me up for a chat or advice, if you need it, and I’ll be more than happy to be of assistance.

I look forward to serving the community that has given me a real sense of belonging.


Call 0800 ADRIFT for support any day between 7am and 10pm or email info@firstmate.org.nz to access the support you need. We also have a growing library of free resources available for you to access on our website.