Coastguard Tūrangi celebrates 50 years of saving lives on the water

Tūrangi, 30 October – Coastguard Tūrangi volunteers, supporters, and community partners are coming together this Saturday to proudly celebrate the unit’s 50th anniversary – five decades of saving lives on the water.

The open day begins with a morning pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) at the Tokaanu Watersports Centre, followed by boat rides, water safety sessions, and other community activities. Representatives from Coastguard, emergency services, key partners, and supporters will join the celebrations.

The event will also feature the launch of ‘Coastguard Tūrangi: 50 Years on the Lake’, a book highlighting the unit’s history, achievements, and rescues. The book will be available at the event or by order for $50.

More details here: Coastguard Tūrangi 50th Anniversary Day!

50 years of community service
From its humble beginnings as the Tūrangi Marine Rescue Service in 1974, the unit officially became Coastguard Tūrangi in 1998. Reflecting on this special milestone, volunteer Juliet Clarke said, “It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come. From volunteers using personal boats for rescues to having a professional crew and modern vessels, it’s been a journey of growth and community support.”

The unit’s first rescue vessel, a 6.8m Naiad, was acquired in 1996 and named after their sponsor, Genesis Energy. In 2013, they launched their current vessel, Mauri Ora, a 9m Orca supported by the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board. Powered by twin 250hp Yamaha motors, Mauri Ora ensures rapid responses across Lakes Taupō, Rotoaira, and Otamangakau.

“We’re grateful to our supporters like Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, Genesis, Oreti International Fishing Club, Pukawa Property Owners, Tūrangi/Tongariro Community Grant, and Tūrangi Market for their ongoing investment in our operations and equipment,” Juliet said.

Saving lives on the water
Last year, Coastguard Tūrangi volunteers dedicated over 1,800 hours to their community, responding to 12 incidents and helping 39 people get home safely.

One of the most memorable rescues involved a floatplane forced to make an emergency landing on Lake Taupō after the engine began emitting thick black smoke mid-flight. With no visibility, the pilot shut down the engine and glided towards the lake.

Coastguard Tūrangi responded quickly, arriving just after the aircraft touched down. Thankfully, there were no injuries. The pilot later explained that a broken piston caused oil to spray onto the exhaust, creating smoke. One quick-thinking passenger even opened her door mid-glide to check their altitude and ensure no boats were in the way. Tūrangi volunteers towed the plane to Pukawa Bay, ensuring everyone reached shore safely.

Philip Harkness, Acting CEO of Coastguard said, “With the size of Lake Taupō and how quickly conditions can change, having Coastguard Tūrangi in the region makes a huge difference to the water-loving communities. This is more than a celebration of the unit’s lifesaving work — it’s a moment to recognise the dedication and collective efforts that define Coastguard Tūrangi."

Coastguard congratulates Coastguard Tūrangi on their 50 years of hard volunteer mahi, keeping Kiwis safe on beautiful Lake Taupō!