Waiheke Volunteer Coastguard was formed in 1990 as the result of growing concern over marine related accidents and mishaps around Waiheke Island, some of which ended tragically.  Initially created as a rescue arm of the Waiheke Boating Club, the unit soon developed into a separate Coastguard unit, and became affiliated to the NZ Coastguard Federation in 1997. 

The unit currently has 3 COC (certificate of competency) qualified skippers and 7 operational 'wet' crew and 7 trainees.  We are all volunteers and are available 24/7 for callouts via a pager system.  The crew and skippers, although volunteers, train to full professional standards.  Not only do they crew the rescue vessel but take part in committees, fundraising, maintenance, lots of training and at every opportunity attempt to keep the public informed in matters of safety at sea.  The unit is always keen to hear from local Waiheke Islanders who are able to become dedicated crew members and anyone interested should contact Rebecca at the email below.

Until July 2009, the unit operated an 8.5 metre Naiad Protector, rigid hulled inflatable boat known as Waiheke Rescue. This vessel was kept in the water at Matiatia to enable quick launching when required however we have now sold the Protector and are awaiting the completion of a custom made 10.2m rigid hulled inflatable Naiad in December 2009.  The new boat has been designed to suit the unique requirements that we have as a coastguard unit on Waiheke Island and will again be based at Matiatia. 

What our new boat is going to look like.

Sponsors:

The Waiheke Volunteer Coastguard would like to thank all the good people of the Waiheke Community for their ongoing support.

Meetings/Training:
Rostered crews train on the water every Sunday and classroom training takes place on the 4th Tuesday of every month.  The committee meet on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.

Contact:
President: Rebecca Armstrong
Phone: (09) 372 2175

email: waihekecoastguard@hotmail.com