Mangawhai, 15 April, 2026 - Coastguard Mangawhai has been officially recognised as a Coastguard unit, marking a major milestone for one of Northland’s fastest‑growing coastal communities.
The decision strengthens local search and rescue capability and improves response times across the Mangawhai bar and surrounding coastline.
Coastguard Mangawhai president Ron Lucca says the achievement reflects years of planning, strong local backing, and the need to improve maritime safety in the area.
“Mangawhai sits between two busy Coastguard units – Kawau and Whangarei - and the risks on our bar are well known,” says Lucca.
“The question was never if something serious would happen - it was when. Having a dedicated unit here means we can respond faster, with the right people and the right gear, when our community needs us most.”
From idea to reality
Planning for a Coastguard unit in Mangawhai began in 2021, driven by rapid population growth and rising boat traffic, particularly over summer. A feasibility study and community consultation showed strong support for a local unit, with 73 per cent in favour of a trial, and strong backing from the Kaipara District Council.
Mangawhai was later identified nationally as one of four locations with a Coastguard capability gap. In June 2024, the Prime Minister announced an $8 million funding package to help establish new units across the country, including Mangawhai.
With support secured, preparations began to set up the new trial unit with adequate equipment, volunteers and training. Coastguard Mangawhai became operational in November 2025, with a 9‑metre rescue vessel, Kōkako Rescue, a beach‑launching tractor, and a base established near the Mangawhai Heads reserve.
Built by the community
From raffles and grants to a 35km sponsored swim, locals rallied behind the project in every way imaginable.
“This unit exists because the community got behind it - with time, skills, fundraising, and donations. That support has been incredible,” says Lucca.
Local businesses hosted raffles that raised around $9,000, while grants, community events, and individual efforts helped fund essential equipment. A former Coastguard skipper also donated a trailer now being converted into a mobile fuel tanker.
Lucca says media coverage and community engagement helped attract 91 memberships – 40 renewals and 51 new - leading to $4,550 going directly to the unit and more than $380 in additional member donations.
The unit has had no shortage of volunteers, with three on‑water crews, backed by shore crews handling beach launches and retrievals.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by how many people have stepped up to volunteer. Every Wednesday night the base is full of people training, learning, and supporting each other. We’re like a family,” says Lucca.
Support from Coastguard Tautiaki Moana and neighbouring unit Coastguard Whangārei has also been crucial, with trainers and skippers assisting on a regular basis.
Even in its early days, Coastguard Mangawhai is supporting local events including waka ama competitions, community festivals, and school holiday boating safety programmes.
What’s next
Next steps include securing a permanent base on the current site, progressing a purpose‑built rescue vessel designed for the local conditions, and sourcing a custom beach‑launching trailer.
In just a few months of operation, Coastguard Mangawhai has already responded to 9 incidents and assisted 22 people, including a Category 1 incident - a strong indicator of the ongoing demand for a permanent base and purpose‑built rescue vessel.
Coastguard CEO Carl McOnie says Mangawhai’s official recognition reflects the unit’s early impact, the strength of local commitment, and the importance of continued national investment in maritime safety.
“Coastguard Mangawhai and the local community have stepped up to fill a critical gap on a challenging stretch of coastline,” says McOnie.
“In a short time, they’ve built real capability that’s already making a difference - ensuring people on the water get help faster. It’s a powerful example of what communities and Coastguard can achieve together.”
Lucca says they’re building for the future of the Mangawhai community.
“We’re building something that will last for decades - something Mangawhai can be proud of, and something that will make a real difference for generations to come”.
