Saving lives at sea isn't easy.
Without your help it's impossible.

Coastguard maintains an infrastructure right around the coast of New Zealand to ensure we are there when the New Zealand public need us.

In the Northern Region we cover from Thames, across to Kawhia and up both coasts to Cape Reinga. We have strategically located rescue vessels, search aircraft and comprehensive marine VHF coverage and units that all go into making up this infrastructure – they are all operated by volunteers. In addition to search and rescue  we work hard to provide boaties with safety information and services to help you enjoy your boating.

You can also keep up with the latest news by connecting with us on;

Team Rescue

Coastguard New Zealand has recently launched Team Rescue, which is a new way to support the lifesaving work of Coastguard’s 2,400 volunteers with a monthly donation. Rescues are happening all year round, and this is a way of getting behind our volunteers each and every month.

As part of Team Rescue, you'll help save lives and make our seas, lakes and rivers safer for all. And we'll show you exactly how you're helping, by sending regular updates about our rescues, volunteers and mission.

For more information or to be part of Team Rescue today please CLICK HERE.

Coastguard's Operations Centre officially reopens

A new high tech operations centre has been officially opened at the Coastguard Northern Region headquarters in Auckland. Boasting state-of-the-art equipment the command centre was completed in time for the busy summer season. Its $700,000 construction bill was funded almost entirely by donations from the public and charitable trusts.

The Operations Centre acts as the hub of search and rescue activity across the northern region, connecting Coastguard with Westpac rescue helicopters and after-hours Surf Life Saving, as well as communicating with the thousands of boaties spending their leisure time on the water.

CLICK HERE to read the full story in the NZ Herald.

Stay safe out on the water with the Boating Safety Code

Before taking your boat out please ensure you take the time to carry out a pre-summer boating check and take note of Coastguard's key boating safety messages.

As a simple guide, the Boating Safety Code provides 5 rules that will help you to stay safe, no matter what kind of boat you use.

1. Life jackets; take them - wear them
Boats, especially ones under 6m in length, can sink very quickly. Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water.

2. Skipper Responsibility
The skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for the safe operation of the boat. Know your limits and that of your boat and stay within those limits!

3. Communications
Take two separate waterproof ways of communicating so we can help you if you get in to difficulties.
Coastguard strongly recommends that you carry a marine VHF radio and know the distress and local channels. If you are taking a cell phone make sure it is fully charged and put it in a waterproof plastic bag.

4. Marine Weather
New Zealand's weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and sea state changes.
Also, listen to Coastguard's Nowcasting service if it operates in your area.

5. Avoid Alcohol
Safe boating and alcohol do not mix. Things can change very quickly on the water. You need to stay alert and aware.