Coastguard sets sail for Mangawhai with new trial unit

Coastguard New Zealand has announced plans to establish a new trial unit in Mangawhai, aiming to improve safety on the region’s notoriously dangerous waters.

The temporary unit, expected to be operational for the 2025–26 summer, will include a rescue vessel, base, and essential equipment. The trial will run until April 2026 to determine whether a permanent Coastguard presence is feasible for the fast-growing coastal community.

Mangawhai’s bar, located at the estuary entrance, is infamous for its shifting sands, unpredictable swells, and hidden dangers. It’s claimed multiple vessels and seen countless rescues, particularly involving visiting surfers unfamiliar with local conditions.

The move has received strong support from locals, with many taking to social media to offer their time and skills as volunteers. Community members say the trial is long overdue, with the area's popularity among boaties and surfers continuing to rise.

The new unit will actively respond to incidents, join training exercises, and work alongside local emergency services to bolster marine safety.

Stay tuned as Coastguard works toward building a safer future on the water—right here in Mangawhai.

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