Things don’t always go to plan when you’re out on the water, but we’ve got your back. With a Coastguard Membership you get free non-urgent on-water assistance 24/7 for breakdowns, flat batteries, fuel issues and more. We’ll get you up and running or back to shore safely without a steep towing fee.
You can also buy a Coastguard membership from some boating retailers or from us to give as a gift. For details, see ways to join.
*If you are a commercial operator or won't always be on the vessel, you will need a Vessel Membership. Club Memberships need to be approved and you may need to provide proof of your Club's eligibility. Please call our Customer Care team on 0800 BOATIE (0800 262 843) for more information or to sign up.
Below are common non-urgent situations we often help with. Having a Coastguard Membership gets you that assistance for free.^
Motor or sail, everyone needs an engine and sometimes the old iron spinnaker lets you down. Engines don’t like water or any other form of contamination, bad fuel is a sure-fire way to ruin your day.
Modern boats rely heavily on electrics, and sometimes they can be just as temperamental as your computer at home. Loose cables, or a dodgy connection can quickly take out key systems. Electronics can glitch, screens can freeze, and occasionally things just won’t talk to each other when you need them most.
Batteries don’t last forever, and you may not know if it’s about to die. Fortunately, we carry jump leads.
It only takes a bit of driftwood or floating fishing line to damage your prop, then you’re probably not going anywhere without some help.
Wedged under a rock or an old tree 10 metres down under your boat, it happens.
^ Membership terms and conditions apply, including that the member must be with the vessel at the time of breakdown and assistance. We are unable to assist with salvages.
$150 per year vs $400 per hour
It’s simple. If you're not a member you will be charged $400 per hour for non-urgent, on-water assistance.
MEMBERSHIP vs EMERGENCY
In a marine emergency, we’re there for all Kiwis. Membership gives you peace of mind covering you with free on-water assistance if you need non-urgent help.
New Coastguard members get $75 off our Day Skipper course, a great introductory course for the whole crew and if you're new to being skipper. And all members get 10% off five of our most popular courses: Day Skipper, Maritime VHF Operator's Certificate, Boatmaster, Inboard Engine Maintenance, and Outboard Engine Maintenance.
Find out more about all the courses we offer.
Course discounts are not available to Club Members or members of local Coastguard unit membership programmes.
Our incredible partners provide us with vital resources we need to be the best we can be on and off the water. Members can grab some great deals like discounts on batteries, boating gear, insurance and broadband. To find out more, see partners and discounts.
Partner deals are not available to members of local Coastguard unit membership programmes.
You'll receive our In the Loop members-only email newsletter every month, filled with news, tips and offers to help you get the most out of your boating.
Inside, you’ll find practical tips, simple safety know‑how, and all the essentials that come with being a Coastguard member from trip‑planning and local VHF channels to handy tools and member perks. Have a flick through and get set for smoother, safer adventures with your friends and whānau, wherever you’re heading.
