Howick News

Howick's Past President was also Coastguard New Zealand's President - 2010 Eastern Courier

By KRISTINA RAPLEY - Eastern Courier Last updated 05:00 08/10/2010

GUARDING THE COAST: Howick resident Colin Small is the new national president of Coastguard New Zealand.

Using business know-how to help others has landed Colin Small at the top of his game.

The Howick resident is the new national president of Coastguard New Zealand.

The machinery company general manager and father of four says it's often a juggling act to fit in time to volunteer but his business background has got him this far.

"I like to be able to make a difference, and by being involved in management you have opportunities to influence and make an organisation better."

Mr Small grew up around boats and secured his boat masters licence in 1999, joining the Howick Coastguard team the next year.

"It's not something I had ever considered before but when I did the boatmasters course I became aware of what people out there were doing."

"I just thought it would be a good way to have a bit of fun, serve the community at the same time and give a bit back."

He made his way up the ranks and has been national vice-president for the past three years.

"It's a privilege to be able to serve and be head of this organisation. I'm looking forward to the challenges and meeting all the people that make up Coastguard New Zealand."

He encourages anyone with an interest in boating to volunteer for their local Coastguard.

"You get the odd adrenaline-pumping job which can be a lot of fun. Seeing the gratitude of the people you have helped, and knowing that if you hadn't been out there they could have been in much more serious trouble is a great reward too."

Visit www.coastguard.nz or www.howickcoastguard.org to find out more about Coastguard New Zealand.