Coastguard Mana will upgrade its rescue vessel after receiving a $25,827 grant from New Zealand Community Trust to help keep search and rescue operations running safely from Mana Marina.
The volunteer unit operates Te Awarua Rescue, a 12.5-metre Rayglass Protector used to respond to incidents around Porirua, Cook Strait, the Mana boating area and the top of the Marlborough Sounds.
The funding will go towards improvements to the vessel’s fuel systems, electrical infrastructure and onboard components.
Coastguard Mana says the work is needed to improve safety, reliability and performance in challenging marine conditions.
Crew member Simon Piper said reliable equipment was essential for volunteers responding to emergencies.
“Having a well-maintained and dependable boat ensures our volunteer unit can operate safely, efficiently, and with confidence while serving the local boating community,” Piper said.
Te Awarua Rescue was originally built as an America’s Cup utility boat and has since been adapted for search and rescue work.
Coastguard Mana says the upgrades were identified when the vessel was repurposed, and will also help improve steering, fuel efficiency and maintenance costs.
The work is expected to extend the vessel’s operational life while the unit plans for a future replacement.
Coastguard Mana president Mark Presling said the vessel was central to the unit’s ability to train and respond.
“Without a reliable rescue vessel, it becomes much harder for our volunteers to train and respond when people need help on the water,” Presling said.
“We are extremely grateful for NZCT’s support in helping us keep Te Awarua Rescue in shipshape condition, so we can continue doing what our community relies on us to do.”
Skipper Jason Hall said reliability was vital when crews were called out.
“With the support of NZCT, we are able to get our vessel consistently performing at its optimum level,” Hall said.
NZCT general manager of grants, marketing and communications Ben Hodges said the trust was pleased to support the upgrade.
“Coastguard Mana do amazing work,” Hodges said.
The grant was made possible through NZCT’s fundraising partnerships with Legends Bar, The Mariner and Sandbar Mana.
Coastguard Mana was established in 1996 by members of the Mana Cruising Club and is part of Coastguard New Zealand.
The unit operates from Mana Marina and covers waters known for changing conditions and limited shelter.
Boaties can help reduce risk by checking the marine forecast, carrying two waterproof ways to call for help, wearing lifejackets and logging a trip report before heading out.