Following the devastating landslide at French Bay over Auckland Anniversary Weekend, the extensive refit of Coastguard Titirangi’s vessel 'Lenses Online Rescue' is nearing completion. Here’s a full update from Coastguard Titirangi President Maarten Van Der Zeyden:
The dedicated team at Fishing Boats NZ has successfully rebuilt the crushed roof and mast, along with addressing other minor issues. With everything going well, we anticipate that the rescue vessel will be ready to return to the water in early June, and back in Coastguard action soon after.
In addition to the vessel's refurbishment, Coastguard Titirangi has signed a lease with Auckland Council for a temporary base in Onehunga. The plan is to relocate the vessel and crew back to the Manukau Harbour by mid-June. We are eagerly awaiting the delivery of a tow vehicle, which is expected towards the end of June. This will complete the essential equipment needed for a return to normal operations and training.
Coastguard Titirangi continues to work closely with Auckland Council to remove the demolition debris from French Bay and have contractors on stand-by once given the green light. As this process is still subject to an Auckland Council's geotech survey, in addition to the dangers associated with low hanging powerlines and the road condition, we remain on hold to fully clear the rubble pile and return the site to the community. We are fully committed to removing this debris once deemed safe.
A special thank you to our volunteers, Coastguard New Zealand, the marine surveyor, and the insurance loss adjuster for the fast-paced collaboration and logistical work to get us into this position as quickly as they have.
The past few months have been demanding for our small Unit, but the outpouring of support from the community has been truly heart-warming. We are grateful for all the assistance we have received, which has played a crucial role in getting us back on the water and serving our community once again.
We would like to thank our wide range of supporters and community partners who have chipped in with donations plus messages of solidarity and offers of help. This includes LensesOnline, Chesters Plumbing, LegaSea, Upstairs Gallery in Titirangi, OBC, Eke Panuku Auckland Council and Councilors Ken Turner and Shane Henderson. We’ve also been well supported by Coastguard Auckland, Coastguard Papakura and Coastguard Queenstown who in addition to financial donations, have enabled our volunteers to keep up with on-water training and helping boaties in need.
Considering the challenges faced by our volunteers over the past four months, this turnaround time is quite remarkable and testament to our fantastic network of community supporters.
Thank you to everyone who has stood by us during this challenging time. Your support means the world to us and we look forward to getting back into operation, helping boaties across the Manukau Harbour to enjoy their day out on the water safely and with confidence.
We’re still seeking community support towards our truck and building fit-out – if you can help, please get in touch with me at [email protected].
