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REGISTRATIONS
NOW OPEN

The Big Swim is our nationwide month‑long swimming challenge, bringing thousands of Kiwis together to swim for a safer Aotearoa.

Every participant chooses a distance goal and gets sponsored to complete it, with all funds helping over 2000+ Coastguard volunteers save lives on the water. 

Last year, more than 2,500 swimmers took part, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to support Coastguard’s important rescue, safety, and education work.

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just dipping your toes in, The Big Swim is all about challenging yourself, improving wellbeing, and backing the crew who respond when Kiwis need help on the water.

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THE BIG SWIM
IS HERE

Registrations for The Big Swim 2026 are officially open.

This is where you sign up, set your swim challenge, and start your fundraising journey in support of Coastguard.

Once registered, you’ll receive everything you need to get started, including fundraising tips, resources, and key event updates.

Register below and dive in

Register now
Our Volunteers Drop Everything to Save Lives on the Water

They answer every call for help, even in the toughest conditions. Your support makes those rescues possible. From keeping boats afloat to bringing Kiwis safely home, every donation powers real lifesaving action.

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FUNDRAISING HELPS
US SAVE LIVES

Your support keeps volunteers responding, rescuing, and bringing people home.

Source: Coastguard Performance Report 2025

  • 01

    2,785 incidents were responded to

  • 02

    6,792 Kiwis were brought home safely

  • 03

    61 lives were saved because Coastguard was there

  • 04

    265,602 total volunteer hours

From bake sales to bold challenges, any idea can create lifesaving impact.

Want to support Coastguard your own way?

Fundraise your way and support our 2,000+ volunteers on the water.

Create Your
Own Fundraiser

Start your fundraiser

It takes a crew to save a life

Coastguard is a charity powered by volunteers. Your support can help make boating safer for all Kiwis.