Coastguard Taranaki was set up during the summer of 1972-73. The Unit began by providing a marine radio service (which they still do) to all vessels in the area. Over time, as radio coverage gradually improved, two small jet boats were used for search and rescue incidents.
In 1999 Coastguard Taranaki purchased a 44 foot Waveney Class Lifeboat from the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) in the UK. In recognition of Port Taranaki’s sponsorship to the Unit over many years, the vessel was named “Westgate Rescue”.
After some 25 years service in the UK and a further 12 years service with Coastguard Taranaki, “Westgate Rescue” was sold.
The Unit’s current rescue vessel “Todd Energy Rescue” was commissioned on 3 November 2012. The vessel’s name recognises the lead sponsor behind the acquisition of this New Zealand designed and built AMF 1170 Quick Response Vessel (QRV).
The unit trains on Tuesday's and Sunday's. If you like to get involved, please get in touch.
Visit our About Us section for more information on our unit's Vessel, Sponsors and how you can Contact Us.
Legal Name | Taranaki Volunteer Coastguard Service Inc |
Charity Number | CC38018 |
Support the Coastguard and our volunteers in their mission of ‘saving lives at sea’, and get benefits at the same time.
Find out how to become a memberIncrease your knowledge and confidence by completing a boating course.
Book a boating courseNo matter your skill set, there’s a place for you in the Coastguard whānau.
Join the crew today