It was a milestone moment for Coastguard Mangawhai this week with the arrival of its new rescue vessel, Kokako, marking the beginning of a long-awaited trial unit for the region.

The nine-metre Rayglass Protector, one of several boats used for patrol and fleet control during the last America’s Cup, was gifted to Coastguard New Zealand after racing concluded. Kokako was brought down from Marsden Cove in stiff 25-knot easterly winds and a sloppy two-metre north-easterly swell, before being temporarily put on display at Carters.

Her permanent base has been set up in space made available by Kaipara District Council and Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park, with fencing and preparations being completed by members of the ground crew, including Coastguard Mangawhai president Ron Lucca and vice-president Vern Dark.

Three ‘wet’ crews are currently in training, supported by a shore-based team, with the vessel expected to be ready for tasking after Labour Weekend. The boat will be officially blessed at a ceremony on Saturday 20 September, followed by a public viewing at around 11am.

The new tractor and trailer getting ready for the boats arrival.

The trial unit will operate from September 2025 through to April 2026, providing rescue services and assessing the viability of a permanent Coastguard presence in Mangawhai. With the community’s popularity among boaties and surfers increasing, and the bar at the estuary entrance infamous for its shifting sands and unpredictable swells, locals say the move is long overdue.

The new unit will respond to emergencies, participate in training exercises, and work alongside local emergency services to strengthen marine safety.

Call for volunteers

Coastguard Mangawhai is now calling for new crew members to join both its on-water and shore-based teams. If you live locally and feel you can contribute, you can fill out the online crew application form here.

What Coastguard is looking for in volunteers:

• Previous marine rescue experience
• Good all-rounders who work well in a team environment
• Physically and mentally fit, able to handle long hours in tough conditions
• Ability to follow instructions and operate rescue equipment
• Confident swimmer, able to tread water
• Available at short notice on rostered duty days
• Based in or near Mangawhai Heads

What they offer in return:

• The excitement and challenge of life on the water or supporting from shore
• First-class training and clear progression pathways
• Development of leadership, teamwork, and risk assessment skills
• Personal growth and rewarding experiences
• New friendships with like-minded locals
• The chance to make a real difference in Aotearoa