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The callout at 0900 on Saturday morning was to a 6.6 m Haines Hunter that was adrift off Pakiri Beach…
Back up to back up plans
This afternoon's callout should have been simple…
Narrow escape?
We've been called out two days in a row…
We need more crew
We are currently looking for volunteers
Hit the button if you would like to become part of our team…
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Sunday 11 October 2026 Cherry Blossom Edition
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Labour Day weekend is nearly here, and so is summer
For a lot of us, Labour weekend marks the unofficial start of the boating season. But a long winter off the water means skills can get a bit stale. A quick refresher now beats finding the gaps when you're out on the water. Before you back the trailer down the ramp, why not take an online course to refresh your knowledge.
A few minutes now saves a headache later. Here's what's worth a proper look before your first trip of the season:
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Battery: Fully charged, terminals clean, connections tight. Your electronics will drain it faster than you think.
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Fuel: Fresh, not what's been sitting in the tank since Easter. Check the hoses too, and stick to the rule of thirds, a third to get there, a third to get back, a third in reserve.
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Lifejackets: Check they still fit everyone on board, not just that you have enough. Kids grow over winter. Honestly, so do the rest of us.
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First aid kit: Have a look at what's expired since last summer and top it back up.
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Communication: Make sure your two waterproof forms of communication are charged, work and are accessible.
Don't skip the outboard
It's tempting to just turn the key and go, but a few checks now can save you a tow home later. Give your fuel system, oil, and prop a once-over, and always start the engine at the dock before you head out, not after. If you want to know more then why not take our outboard engine maintenance course available online.
Are you a Coastguard member?
With a Coastguard NZ Membership you get free non-urgent on-water assistance 24/7 for breakdowns, flat batteries, fuel issues and more. We’ll get you up and running or back to shore safely without a steep towing fee.
On the application form don’t forget to select “Kawau" as your unit!
ABOUT COASTGUARD KAWAU
Coastguard Kawau is a registered charity based at Sandspit near Warkworth in the Rodney District.
Our unit is manned by a dedicated team of 30 local volunteers who collectively contribute around 4000 hours each year. Our area of operation is from Bream Tail in the north, to south of the Mahurangi River. We also attend callouts as far out as the 12-mile limit, beyond Great Barrier Island and the Mokohinau Islands, an area of approximately 6500 sq km.
We are on call 24/7 – 365 days of the year in all weather and sea conditions.
OUR MISSION
Our Mission is “Saving Lives at Sea” - the same mission common to all Coastguard units throughout New Zealand.
To achieve this goal Coastguard Kawau must continually raise funds to ensure the ongoing costs of operation are met. Only half of our annual operating costs are met by Coastguard NZ funding – the rest we must find from within the local community or from private individuals or from corporate grants.
If you are able to contribute to our operation Donate Now or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
David Vale President Coastguard Kawau +64 274 718 786 president@coastguardkawu.org.nz
*2024 figures