 In 1975 Maraetai Beach Boating Club, following a light aircraft crash of
Duders
Beach, set up a 16ft runabout for sea rescue as well as a club patrol vessel. In 1982 this vessel won an Auckland Coastguard award for the most rescues. In 2001 legal requirements became more stringent so the boating club removed sea rescue from its constitution.
The rescue vessel crew formed Pohutukawa Sea Rescue Trust and a 6.3m Stabicraft was purchased and operated under MSA ‘safe ship management’ rules as a dedicated rescue vessel under an agreement with Auckland Volunteer Coastguard and a community service contract with Manukau City Council.
 In August 2004 this vessel was replaced with an 8.5m Rayglass Protector and the operational arm of the Trust formed an incorporated society known as Maraetai Sea Rescue Inc. Following affiliation with Coastguard NZ the name was changed to Coastguard Maraetai Inc. (CM) to reflect this closer association. The Protector has retained the name Maraetai Rescue One and the original call sign ZMV8994.
The Trustees of Pohutukawa Coast Sea Rescue Trust are elected from Pohutukawa Coast Resident and Ratepayers Association, Beachlands Rotary and Beachlands Police. The Trust owns the assets and together with Coastguard NZ fund Coastguard Maraetai operations and the maintenance.
Members of CM live as far afield as Clevedon and Dannemora. Members must complete a ‘Local Coastguard Assistant’ training programme, VHF radio course, qualify to Marine Medic level 2 and Boat Masters and be a member of Coastguard NZ before they become operational crew members. Ongoing training consists of monthly theory nights during the off season as well as water practical exercises. Training is also provided for those that wish to progress through to skipper. All sea time is recognised as “commercial” in regard to maritime qualifications allowing members to work toward a maritime career.
Should you have any questions, or enjoy the sea and would like to become a volunteer please contact.
Download the brochure about Coastguard Maraetai
Download the membership form Coastguard Maraetai
phone: 09 536 7105
Email: secretary@coastguardmaraetai.org.nz
www.coastguardmaraetai.org.nz
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