Coastguard Canterbury

15/06/2026

This week (and every week!) we’re celebrating the incredible volunteers who make our Coastguard unit possible.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life, generously giving their time, skills, and dedication to help keep people safe on the water. Whether responding to emergencies, assisting boaties in need, maintaining vessels and equipment, fundraising, or supporting operations behind the scenes, every volunteer plays a vital role.

Their commitment means our community can enjoy the water with greater confidence, knowing help is available when it’s needed most.

To our volunteers: thank you for the early mornings, late nights, training sessions, callouts, and countless hours you contribute. Your passion, professionalism, and service make a real difference.

This National Volunteer Week, please join us in recognising and celebrating the people who give their time to help others return home safely.

⚓ Thank you to all our volunteers — we couldn’t do it without you.

21/05/2026

Yesterday, near the end of a busy day at work, our crew was tasked to assist a vessel that had run out of fuel between Pigeon Bay and Little Akaloa.
The team established a safe tow and brought the vessel back to Lyttelton Harbour without incident.
On the return journey, the crew were treated to a spectacular display from the local Hector’s dolphins—an unforgettable reminder of why we love serving our coastline.
Have you got your Coastguard Membership? Your support helps keep our dedicated volunteers on call 24/7, ready to respond whenever they’re needed.

20/05/2026

Ladies, keen to feel more confident around boats and out on the water?
Wild Chix is bringing Boating Basics for Women to Christchurch. This is a relaxed, beginner friendly session designed to help women build confidence and learn practical boating skills in a supportive environment.
We’ll cover topics like safety, navigation, weather, boat handling, communication, and more, with no pressure and no such thing as a silly question.
Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to refresh their knowledge alongside a great group of women.
If this sounds like you or great for someone you know, check out the event link and sign up.

There is also the chance to win 5 Double Passes to the event, just head to Mr Boats for more details!

Learn the basics of powerboating to become more confident on the water!

18/05/2026

Today, on International Women in Maritime Day, we celebrate the incredible wāhine of Coastguard Canterbury.
From radio operations and crew support to search and rescue missions on the water, these dedicated volunteers give their time, skills, strength, and compassion to help keep our communities safe.
Their commitment, resilience, and teamwork embody the true spirit of service. Whether responding in challenging conditions or supporting behind the scenes, our women in maritime continue to inspire the next generation to step forward with confidence and courage.
Thank you to every wahine who serves, leads, and makes a difference in volunteer search and rescue. Your contribution to maritime safety is invaluable.

09/05/2026

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mums and mother figures in our crew, our families, and our community.

Volunteer rescue work doesn’t happen without people willing to give their time, skills, and energy to help others — and many of those people are mums balancing a lot both on and off the water.

Today we’re recognising the wahine who answer callouts, support their crews, keep things running behind the scenes, and continue showing up for their communities. Thank you for everything you do.

From all of us at Coastguard Canterbury, we wish you a safe and happy Mother’s Day. 🌊💐

07/05/2026

We’re excited to announce that our new building is a finalist in the Commercial Project Awards! 🎉

This project was made possible through the hard mahi and dedication of our incredible volunteers and contractors, and it’s wonderful to see their efforts recognised and celebrated. Thank you to everyone who helped bring this vision to life.

06/05/2026

Our hearts are heavy as we stand alongside our brothers and sisters across the Tasman following the tragic loss of lives in the Marine Rescue NSW incident.

From one volunteer crew to another, we know the call doesn’t come with guarantees. It comes with commitment, courage, and a quiet understanding of the risks taken in service of others. Today, we mourn not just the loss of skilled rescuers, but of people who chose to show up when it mattered most.

To the families, friends, and fellow volunteers: we send our deepest aroha. You are in our thoughts as you navigate this unimaginable time.

Fair winds and following seas.

Last night was the darkest night ever experienced by Marine Rescue NSW.

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers answer the call for help 24/7 and last night six members from Marine Rescue Ballina did just that. They launched with a single mission, to save lives on the water and assist a yacht, reported to be in difficulty off the South Ballina break wall.

Tragically, two of our volunteers lost their lives during the response.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the devastating loss is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by volunteers who serve their communities.

“These two men were serving their local community and have made the ultimate sacrifice to help others.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of the deceased, their fellow crew members, the brave radio operators who handled the difficult communications during the incident, the entire Marine Rescue NSW family and the wider Ballina community during this incredibly difficult time.

“We are supporting our volunteers and their families through professional counselling and chaplaincy support.

“We ask that the privacy of those involved and their families be respected during this difficult time,” Commissioner Andrews said.

19/04/2026

Let us know if you’re keen to join us!

02/04/2026

As the long weekend approaches, we know many of you will be heading out to enjoy Aotearoa’s beautiful moana. Whether you're fishing, cruising, or just soaking up the sun, our crew will be on watch — ready to help if things don’t go to plan.

But remember: the best rescue is the one that never has to happen.

Before you head out:
✔️ Check the weather
✔️ Wear your lifejacket
✔️ Take two forms of communication
✔️ Let someone know your plan

If you haven’t already, now’s the perfect time to become a Coastguard member. For a small annual fee, you’ll get peace of mind knowing you won’t face unexpected costs if you need help on the water — and you’ll be supporting the volunteers who give their time to keep our communities safe.

From all of us at Coastguard Canterbury:
Kia pai tō rā whakatā, ā, hoki ora mai.

Our kind of Easter basket 🧺⚓

🦺 Lifejackets worn
🆘 Two ways to call for help (mobile, VHF radio + PLB/EPRIB)
⛅ Marine forecast checked (try Nowcasting on Coastguard App)
📱 Trip report logged on the Coastguard App or via VHF radio
😋 Easter eggs and hot cross buns (non-negotiable)

Whatever you’re up to this long weekend, make safety part of the plan.

What's in your Easter safety basket?

30/03/2026

We're on the lookout for a hero behind the scenes!

Do you have a knack for organization and a love for community service? Join Coastguard Canterbury as a Secretary – the glue that keeps everything running smoothly!

You'll play a vital role by:
Keeping our records in shipshape
Managing important correspondence
Supporting the Unit Committee
Keeping everyone – from volunteers to Coastguard NZ – in the loop!

You might not be out on the water, but you'll be making waves of impact from the shore.

🌊 Interested? See the position description in the comments below, and send us a message!