'Test the waters': Young sailor achieves unique career double

Kinitoni Lotulelei, 23, has completed his university studies and basic Navy training and graduated from both just a few weeks apart.

And Lotulelei is encouraging other Pacific young people to consider a career in the New Zealand Defence Force to “test the waters and challenge the boundaries”.

Lotulelei comes from the villages of Sapa’ata and Tongamama’o in ‘Eua, Tonga. His parents migrated to New Zealand shortly before he was born, living in Kelston, Auckland which Lotulelei proudly calls home.

He excelled at Kelston Boys High School, and year 13 economics in particular, which led him to study a commerce degree at the University of Auckland.

University had its challenges.

“The majority of my course was online because of Covid but I learn better in class face to face.”​

Despite the difficult experience, making his parents proud is what fueled Lotulelei to complete his degree.

While studying, Lotulelei began training with friends preparing to join the Royal New Zealand Navy.

The group’s mentor, Leading Youth Development Specialist James Faleofa, was awarded The Royal New Zealand Navy’s Sailor of the Year for 2022 and was the New Zealand Defence Force’s 2022 Person of the Year.

Faleofa invite people serving in the NZ Army and Navy to share their story with Lotulelei and his friends.

“That hooked me in and it made me want to join the Navy,” Lotulelei says.

​After successfully completing his university studies in late 2022, Lotulelei began his basic Navy training this February.

His younger brother is also in the Navy and completed his training a few months before Lotulelei.

Lotulelei graduated university in May, and then completed his ‘ruthless’ basic training a few weeks later in June.

“Ruthless but in a way that teaches you discipline. It changes you from a civilian into an actual sailor that’s here to protect the country, the waters.”​

​He recalls a training exercise, which involved repeatedly carrying sandbags uphill.

“I reached the very top of the hill, my legs had almost given up and I’d had enough. But I remembered my old man’s saying that pain is temporary but victory is forever."

Lotulelei was exempted from Navy training for a day, for his graduation - something he understands had never been done before.

Lotulelei began training as a marine technician but his path in the Navy has changed after being accepted to become an officer, through a commission from the ranks.

This is extremely special as Lotulelei is only two months into serving in the Navy.

When looking at the future, Lotulelei says: "I can’t see where I want to go but I can say that I do want to make a difference for my community back home in Kelston because there’s a lot of wasted potential out there that could be put to good use."

Written by 'Alakihihifo Vailala, Te Rito Journalism cadet