Coastguard Whanganui was formed in 1978 when the Marine Search and Rescue Group which had been created in 1964 became Whanganui Volunteer Coastguard Inc. The group had been established as a result of a number of incidents off the Whanganui coast which identified the need for a managed response to marine search and rescue at Whanganui. 

Over the years the Unit has grown from a small number of enthusiastic volunteers and a very small vessel to a strong viable Unit with a great team.