Coastguard Kaipara

16/06/2026

It's National Volunteer Week! 🙌

This week, we proudly recognize and celebrate our incredible volunteers who go above and beyond, both on and off the water. Thank you for your time, effort, commitment, and assisting others when they need it most. We are grateful for all that you do.

10/06/2026

Earlier this year, we welcomed the arrival of our new shallow water rescue vessel, a vessel that will help to provide assistance, alongside Winstone Rescue.

This vessel will enhance our ability to respond in areas where access can be challenging, helping us continue to provide our rescue and assistance services across the Kaipara Harbour.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Highfield Boats New Zealand, Honda Marine New Zealand, and Aakron Xpress Trailers for their ongoing support and making this vessel a reality.

05/06/2026

A sincere thank you to the sponsors of Winstone Rescue, a vessel that has proudly served the Kaipara Harbour and supported the boating community from Hokianga down to the Manukau.

We extend our gratitude to Winstone Aggregates NZ, Atlas Concrete, and Honda Marine New Zealand for their generous and ongoing support. Their support has helped keep Winstone Rescue operational and made it possible for us to continue providing vital rescue and assistance services to those on the water. Thank you for being an important part of what we do.

01/06/2026

‼️ Heads up, boaties – Nowcasting outage

We’re currently experiencing an outage affecting all VHF Nowcasting sites.

Unfortunately, this isn’t a quick fix - it will take some time to get everything back up and running as systems need to be rebuilt and reconnected.

📱 Good news: Nowcasting, forecasts and tides are still available on the free Coastguard app.
✅ Our normal VHF radio network is still fully operational.

In the meantime, here are other ways to stay informed before and during your trip:
✅ Use the Coastguard app
✅ Check MetService marine forecasts: https://www.metservice.com/marine/recreational/
✅ Listen to Maritime Radio – forecasts and warnings are broadcast daily at 0133, 0533, 0733, 1033, 1333, 1733, and 2133 (announced on Channel 16, then broadcast on your local working channel – check your VHF handbook)

28/05/2026

Hey there!

While you’ve probably seen our new shallow water rescue vessel featured in recent posts, we’re currently looking for a sponsor to help support the vessel and the work we do on the water.

If you or your business would be interested, please get in touch with us or send us an email at [email protected]

23/05/2026

Saturdays are for Sea Trials 🌊⚓

Today, the crew headed out onto the harbour aboard Winstone Rescue and our new shallow water rescue vessel, making the trip across to Tinopai and back. Along the way, the team carried out essential training drills, assessments, and some sea trials for our new vessel.

A great way to kick off the weekend! 💪

15/05/2026

🟠Callout🟠

This evening, crew aboard Winstone Rescue responded to assist a 5.5m vessel that had run aground just shy of Shelly Beach. Unfortunately, by the time the vessel had refloated, darkness had set in.🌙

Our crew escorted the vessel safely back to Parakai, with everyone making it back to the ramp safe and sound.....just a little later than planned 😊

13/05/2026

Heading to the Hutchwilco Boat Show?

We'll be there alongside Highfield Boats, with our brand new shallow water Rescue Vessel. Come take a look and say Hi to the team. We look forward to seeing you there!

We're also on the lookout for a sponsor for our shallow water rescue vessel. If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, have a chat to one of our crew at the show or get in touch with us. 🌊

06/05/2026

We extend our deepest condolences and thoughts to the families, friends and the Ballina community following this tragic and heartbreaking loss.

Our thoughts are with all those affected during this incredibly difficult time and we acknowledge the dedication, effort and tireless commitment of all those involved.

Though we may be a sea apart, we stand with you. Kia Kaha

- Coastguard Kaipara

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1MdNSKbHTR/

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.

05/05/2026

This evening we swapped the usual on-water training for being in the water.

With big thanks to Kaipātiki Hot Springs we were able to simulate our in-water survivability training, a vital part of our training to be prepared should we ever end up in the water. 🌊

We also put a lifejacket from the 60s to the test (3rd pic). While it did work in controlled conditions, it is filled with kapok and we aren't so sure how long it would last for. Definitely do not recommend using 60yr old lifejackets 😁.