Auckland, 23 October 2026 - Coastguard Auckland Skipper and volunteer Emma Psaila has been named one of 10 finalists in the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) Awards 2026, putting her among the best in maritime search and rescue worldwide.
The IMRF announced the shortlist on 16 October. Emma is the only New Zealander on it.
You can also help her win the People's Choice Award. Cast your vote here.
Emma's nomination recognises a contribution that goes well beyond her rescue work. She also plays a central role in training and community activities at Coastguard Auckland. She has helped recruit and mentor volunteers, encouraging them to gain experience aboard rescue vessels and build their operational skills, and has helped many grow in confidence and take on more responsibility within Coastguard.
Her impact reaches into the wider community too. Emma has supported Women in SAR events in New Zealand and worked with various community groups. These include Youth Search and Rescue, Sea Scouts, Venturers and more. She’s helped introduce young people to boating and maritime activities, serving to build the next generation of safe, confident boaties and, potentially, future volunteers. Earlier this year she attended the IMRF Women in SAR training event alongside Jess Cameron from Coastguard Marlborough.
Emma was quick to acknowledge her colleagues. “Nobody does this on their own. Every rescue is a crew effort, and the people I’ve had the privilege of training and working alongside are the real reason I’m here,” she said.
“The best part of all of this is being able to be a part of someone else's journey, and see confidence and skills grow. I wouldn't be where I am today without the same support from my unit and beyond, and I'm so grateful to be able to do what I do. Beyond everything, if this can encourage more people, especially women, to give Coastguard a go and believe in themselves, that is the best thing I could ask for.”
Emma joins a shortlist that spans rescue crews, individuals and organisations from Australia, China, South Africa, Sweden, the United Kingdom and Samoa.
IMRF Chief Executive Caroline Jupe said the standard of nominations this year had been extremely high.
“Those shortlisted reflect the breadth of expertise and commitment within our sector," she said. "From crews responding to complex and challenging rescue operations to individuals who have dedicated decades to saving lives at sea, and organisations finding new ways to strengthen rescue capabilities through technology and training, their achievements deserve recognition.”
Winners will be announced at the IMRF Conference in Saint-Malo, France, on 25-26 November 2026.
One of the awards, the People's Choice Award, is decided by public vote, and that's where the Coastguard whānau can help. Voting closes at 11am on 30 October NZ time.
Congratulations, Emma, from everyone at Coastguard.
