Mangawhai, 17 December 2025 - Coastguard Mangawhai marked another major milestone today, successfully completing its first official rescue after responding to a vessel in distress near Wahine Bay, off the south east of Hen (Taranga) Island.
At 10:47am, Coastguard’s National Operations Centre received a call from a 25-foot vessel taking on water in choppy seas on top of a one-metre swell.
Five Coastguard Mangawhai volunteers launched rescue vessel Kokako Rescue reaching the vessel to secure the safety of three people and three dogs onboard.
“They were happy to see us - they were definitely in need of help,” said Kokako Rescue crew member Duncan McKenzie.
As the crew began towing the vessel back to Mangawhai, a broken hatch and worsening weather conditions caused it to take on more water, making the tow back to base unsafe.
The crew transported the passengers and the dogs safely back to shore while Coastguard Whangarei’s Circa Rescue stepped in to tow the stricken vessel through calmer waters to Marsden Cove.
McKenzie said the conditions were tough, but the team was ready for it.
“Winds were blowing 25 knots and seas were rough. The crew did a great job - we’re all pretty proud," he said.
“It was good to see all the training we’ve done pay off. We made a difference and saved some lives – it could have been a lot worse for them out there”.
The rescued passengers were extremely grateful.
“They were so stoked. There were hugs all ‘round,” McKenzie said.
“[The rescued passenger] was really happy that she’d joined Coastguard as a member. She was even trying to find ways to donate money to us for getting them home safe”.
This marks Mangawhai’s first official callout since becoming operational in November.
The establishment of Coastguard Mangawhai is part of our broader strategy to strengthen coverage nationwide and ensure timely assistance in areas with growing recreational marine activity.
Mangawhai is a popular destination for boaties, surfers, and holidaymakers, and with more people enjoying these waters, there’s a growing need for a dedicated local Coastguard presence.
“It’s good to know this service is here for everyone in the area,” McKenzie added.
“People can head out on the water knowing we’re here, trained and ready to help”.
