While many Kiwis celebrated Christmas and the lead-up to it with festive cheer, Coastguard volunteers across New Zealand were busy ensuring the safety of those on the water. With 61 local units manned predominantly by volunteers, their selflessness and dedication shine brightly during the holiday season. December saw a flurry of activity, underscoring the Coastguard’s indispensable role in New Zealand’s marine safety network.
I know (because I can see my local Coastguard as they head out at regular intervals during the day) that there are many more unreported rescues that take place across New Zealand every single day of the year.
As you celebrate the festive season, take a moment to acknowledge the incredible work of these volunteers. Their efforts, often carried out in challenging conditions, embody the spirit of community and selflessness. To support their vital work or become a Coastguard member, visit coastguard.nz. Membership not only funds life-saving operations but also ensures peace of mind for your boating adventures.
Mid-December rescues
December 14th, Whitianga Coastguard
The Whitianga Coastguard kicked off December’s busy period with a full day of operations. Early in the morning, they towed a vessel to Kuaotunu from the top of Great Mercury Island. This was followed by test runs of their rescue vessels, ensuring readiness for future emergencies. Meanwhile, other crew members conducted a fundraising drive, selling raffle tickets to support operations.
December 16th, Auckland Coastguard
Auckland Coastguard’s volunteers responded to a distress call about a vessel taking on water. Acting swiftly, they located the boat, secured its occupants, and towed it safely back to Westhaven. Their quick actions prevented a potentially dire situation.
December 18th, Coastguard Whangaroa
A serene evening in Whangaroa Harbour turned tense when a call came in about a capsized boat. Four local lads clung to their overturned tinny until the Coastguard arrived to bring them to safety. Thanks to their prompt response, all four were unharmed.
December 18th, North Kaipara Coastguard
The North Kaipara unit faced logistical challenges when their trailer suffered broken springs after a tow mission. With support from Coastguard Whangarei and local community members, the boat was secured, and repairs were underway. Earlier in the month, the team responded to various incidents, including stranded boats needing tows and jumpstarting engines for grateful boaties.
December 20th, Coastguard Whangaroa
In another incident, crew members from a dinghy used improvised flotation devices to stay afloat until the Coastguard reached them. This rescue highlighted the importance of staying calm and resourceful during emergencies.
Leading to Christmas
December 21st, Thames Coastguard
Thames Coastguard conducted familiarisation training on Tirikawa, one of the AC36 training boats currently on loan to the unit. The crew was soon called to assist a yacht stranded in the mangroves near Thames Wharf (very easy to do, particularly as the tide goes out). This dual-purpose operation showcased their readiness to transition seamlessly from training to real-world rescues.
December 22nd, Whitianga Coastguard
The Whitianga Coastguard assisted a stranded family near Cathedral Cove after their outboard motor failed. Alongside the rescue, they reminded boaties to keep memberships current, carry multiple forms of communication, and lodge trip reports for added safety.
December 23rd, Coastguard Nelson
In challenging weather conditions, Coastguard Nelson collaborated with the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter and Surf Life Saving Club for hi-line training. This rigorous exercise, simulating real-world rescues, ensured readiness for emergencies even in tough circumstances.
December 24th, Coastguard Hawke’s Bay
Christmas Eve was eventful for Coastguard Hawke’s Bay. In the afternoon, they assisted two vessels in quick succession—one near Waipatiki and another off Pan Pac. Later, they helped a solo sailor near The Cape, who had spent days hand-steering due to an electronics failure. The exhausted skipper was guided to safety and allowed to rest during the journey to Napier. The mission, completed around 3 a.m., underscored their tireless dedication.
Christmas Day heroics
Christmas Day, North Kaipara Coastguard
North Kaipara Coastguard was called out to assist a vessel on Christmas Day. The operation cost the owner over $1,000 due to the lack of a Coastguard membership, highlighting the value of joining the organisation.
Christmas Day, Kawau Island Coastguard
Kawau Island Coastguard undertook a two-step rescue operation for a boat stranded in Big Bay after it struck rocks and became swamped. The team successfully towed the damaged vessel to safety, ensuring a positive outcome for the boaties involved.
Christmas Day, Whitianga Coastguard
Whitianga Coastguard had a marathon day, starting with an early morning tow and assisting a launch near Great Mercury Island by evening. The crew exemplified unwavering commitment, sacrificing personal celebrations to keep others safe.
Christmas Day, Big River Rescue (Southern Fiordland)
A life-threatening situation unfolded when a 4-metre aluminium boat capsized near Big River, Prices Point. A Te Anau rescue helicopter located the pair clinging to the overturned hull and winched them to safety, while Coastguard Riverton recovered the boat. This coordinated effort, prompted by the activation of a personal locator beacon, saved lives and demonstrated the importance of emergency preparedness.
A Month of Dedication
The commitment of Coastguard crews across New Zealand is unparalleled. From towing vessels and repairing equipment to providing life-saving assistance, their efforts ensure safety on the water for all. December’s stories highlight the importance of preparedness, including carrying personal locator beacons (PLBs), maintaining vessels, and keeping communication channels open.
