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.
Source: Coastguard Performance Report 2025
2,785 incidents were responded to
6,792 Kiwis were brought home safely
61 lives were saved because Coastguard was there
265,602 total volunteer hours
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.
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.
From a Rotorua stroke survivor swimming 20km to sisters in Christchurch honouring the crew who rescued them decades apart, this year's stories were something else.
"June 2026 saw thousands of Kiwis challenge themselves in and around the water, while sharing some incredibly personal reasons for taking part. Those stories are at the heart of what makes The Big Swim so special, and we're incredibly proud to have such a passionate community standing behind Coastguard," says Coastguard Tautiaki Moana Chief Executive Carl McOnie.
Coastguard is a charity powered by volunteers. Your support can help make boating safer for all Kiwis.
