The South Taranaki Coastguard Service was formed by a small group of dedicated people who saw the need for Marine Search and Rescue in the South Taranaki region, which runs from Waitotara in the south to Opunake in the north, and includes all rivers and lakes.
We have around 18 rescue squad members who have undertaken training in ‘Medic’ and ‘Search and Rescue’ techniques. We have a lot amount of equipment from survival suits, and rescue equipment to medical and oxygen equipment. As we cover a wide area of coastline this is all housed in a covered trailer.
Channel 83, the VHF marine channel, is monitored on a daily basis and can be used by boaties to log their departure times and return times as well as to receive help in the times of distress. Channel 16, which is the Maritime channel, is monitored 24 hours a day and messages received by the operators on this channel are passed to the local coast guard.
In July of 2002, our unit took possession of a new 6.8 metre Naiad Rescue Vessel. This is fully equipped with twin 115Hp outboard motors, VHF radio, radar, depth sounder, GPS and chart plotter, and UHF ground to air radio. The Naiad Rescue Tender can be launched from several boat ramps in our coverage area. It is valued in the vicinity of $200,000. We house the vessel in a purpose built three bay shed at the local Fire Station and have a towing vehicle. All this has been possible due to grants, donations and sponsorships.
The photos show the rescue boat and its crew on a training exercise in the Patea River and Mana Bay at Patea Beach in 2007.
