The Kawau Volunteer Coastguard was established in 1998. Based at Sandspit, approximately one hour north of Auckland, the unit has an operational area of Kawau Bay, Kawau Island, Mahurangi Harbour and extending to Te Arai Point out to Little Barrier Island. As the Northern most unit in the Hauraki Gulf, they could be expected to extend to Bream Tail if necessary.

The unit operates a 10.25 metre Naiad, rigid hulled inflatable boat known as Kawau Rescue which the unit only took delivery of in early January 2010. The vessel is kept on its trailer and is launched when required. Kawau Rescue was officially launched by Rodney District Mayor Penny Webster on the 22nd of May 2010.