New Lotto-funded rescue boat just the ticket for Coastguard Tutukaka

New rescue vessel made possible through unique America’s Cup partnership between Coastguard, Lotto NZ and Emirates Team NZ

After 14 years of dutiful service, Coastguard Tutukaka can now retire its faithful, yet limited, rescue craft as it prepares to welcome a new high-tech Coastguard Rescue Vessel (CRV) – one that will help the crew better cope with the large and challenging area of ocean they patrol.

Named Tutukaka Rescue / He Waka Whakaoranga o Tutukaka, the new CRV is one of 26 high-spec craft that were first used as chase boats at last year’s America’s Cup. Through a unique partnership between Lotto NZ, Coastguard and Emirates Team New Zealand (known as 4UNZ), and a $9.8 million lottery grant made possible by the millions of Kiwis who play Lotto NZ games each year, these boats have been reskinned and refitted for Coastguard units across the country. Priority has been given to units identified as having ageing vessels, a limited capacity to fundraise - and in the case of Coastguard Tutukaka, a vast area to look after.

Coastguard Tutukaka President Callum Bracey says the unit is incredibly grateful to receive this modern vessel though the 4UNZ Lotto partnership, which will allow them to respond to events quickly and safely thanks to its high-tech fit out.

“Our unit looks after a large open area of ocean, with little to no shelter, which means we can face some significant weather conditions. It’s really important for the safety of the crew as much as the safety of those we’re helping that we have a boat that’s equipped to deal with these conditions, so we’re absolutely stoked to receive this high-tech new vessel.”

Coastguard New Zealand CEO Callum Gillespie said the Tutukaka Coast is a popular holiday destination during the summer months, making Coastguard’s ability to respond to a range of circumstances vital.

“Over the past year, Tutukaka volunteers have brought 100 people home safely, contributing over 2,000 volunteer hours. With a new CRV offering the latest technology and safety features, we’re delighted to be able to support the unit as our volunteers continue to serve their community on and off the water.”

Lotto NZ Chief Executive, Chris Lyman, says supporting the vital work of Coastguard units like Tutukaka is what Lotto NZ is all about.

“Lotto NZ exists to generate essential funding for New Zealand communities – it’s why we do what we do. The positive impact these high-spec vessels will have on communities around the country cannot be underestimated, with each one helping Coastguard save countless lives at sea each year. This is a great example of how Lotto NZ is all about Kiwis helping Kiwis."

The refitting of the boats from America’s Cup supporters to CRVs has been taken care of by original manufacturer, Rayglass, with the support of Coastguard New Zealand, individual units, various community providers and for Tutukaka, a special thanks to a generous Gift in Memory from the Rees and Moira Jones Family Trust.

The boats may have now lost their America’s Cup branding, but Emirates Team New Zealand CEO, Grant Dalton, says their involvement in this unique partnership remains a source of pride for the whole team.

“Coastguard are the unsung heroes of our waters around the country and so it’s great to see the fleet of vessels that supported us freshly refitted and taking to the water again to help them save lives.”

Ends

Notes for editors

The name He Waka Whakaoranga o Tutukaka was chosen in consultation with local iwi.
The boat is due in Tutukaka on June 12 with a low-key ceremony where the boat will be blessed and officially named before a light morning tea.
Media are welcome to attend please email [email protected] for more information

Background

In partnership with Coastguard and Emirates Team New Zealand, a $9.8 million lottery grant funded 26 vessels to be used during the 36th America’s Cup, before they went on to become part of Coastguard’s fleet of rescue vessels.
100% of Lotto New Zealand's profits are distributed back to the Lottery Grants Board, providing a major source of funding for sport and recreation, arts and culture, environment and heritage and community projects throughout the country.

About Coastguard

Coastguard is a charity powered by over 2,000 volunteers in communities around New Zealand.
Coastguard receives 30% of its funding from central government. The other $18 million is raised each year through the support of members, donors, funders and corporate partners.
Last year Coastguard volunteers gave 291,402 hours to keeping New Zealanders safe on the water.
Volunteer crew on rescue vessels, in our search aircraft and on the end of the radio have been dedicated to saving lives for over 150 years.

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