Coastguard Wanaka Lakes was born out of a group of keen boaties becoming involved with the local LandSAR group and identifying a need for search and rescue capability on Lakes Wanaka and Hawea in 2010.  They became a Coastguard unit in 2011 and local volunteers have spent thousands of hours training to achieve their Coastguard Certificates of Competence and become operational.

Our 20 volunteers continue to train increasing their skills and are ready 24/7 to respond to calls for help.  We purchased our Naiad 6.7m rescue vessel in 2012 and continue to have the support of local funders and our key foundation sponsors.