Coastguard volunteers donate 30 years of time in just a year 

261,000 hours. Last year, Coastguard Tautiaki Moana volunteers on the water, in the sky, in radio rooms and unit bases across the motu collectively contributed the equivalent of 30 years to saving lives at sea – all without pay!  

From the beautiful winterless Houhora in the north to the rugged coastline of Bluff in the south, Coastguard volunteers brought nearly 8,000 people safely home from the water last year. 

CEO Callum Gillespie said as we commemorate National Volunteer Week, our heartfelt appreciation extends to every one of our community heroes for their mahi. 

"Coastguard volunteers possess an unwavering commitment to drop everything and lend a helping hand to boaties in need, regardless of their work obligations, slumbering state, or family commitments. Their extraordinary sacrifices to assist others are truly awe-inspiring, especially given the fact they are all volunteers – a fact many people don’t realise!” 

"We are profoundly grateful for their dedication and unwavering service to their communities, ensuring boaties can enjoy our stunning coastline, rivers and lakes safely and with confidence. Thank you for your invaluable contribution to Coastguard Tautiaki Moana,” he said. 

We extend our gratitude to our volunteers' support crews as well. The whānau, friends, colleagues, and employers who enable and support our volunteers - the community of people working behind the scenes, who understand and empower them to make a significant impact to saving lives at sea.

ENDS 

For more information, contact: 
Ben Parsons 
Coastguard New Zealand Senior Communications Advisor 
[email protected]