Coastguard Volunteer Recruitment NZ Skip to main content

Our volunteers are the heart and soul of Coastguard.

Without thousands of Coastguard volunteers nationwide answering the call of their communities, New Zealand would have no maritime search and rescue service. Our volunteers are the ones on the frontline, crewing rescue vessels and aircraft, operating radios, coordinating search and rescue incidents, and saving lives at sea. The vast majority of Coastguard units are run entirely by volunteers, some of whom fill a number of administrative roles so, even if you only have a few hours per month to give or don’t fancy the water - there’s a role for you.

Rescue Vessel/Air Crew

These volunteers are the ones out on the water and in the air, making sure New Zealand’s boaties stay safe. Full of physical challenges and the priceless opportunity to save lives on the water.

Radio Operators

Our radio operators are the main point of contact for boaties as well as our rescue crews. They receive and coordinate emergency incidents, and provide informational services like weather broadcasts.

Shore Crew

No need to be a boatie to get involved, we always need ‘can do’ people supporting us. If you have skills in administration, social media, or health and safety, we welcome your experience.

Committee Crew

Each of Coastguard’s units is self-governed, with roles responsible for governance and administration. If you have previous experience in governance, record-keeping and/or financial reporting, you can make a difference.

Answer the call of your community and become a Coastguard volunteer

You'll get an amazing sense of reward and camaraderie, mental and physical challenges, and the priceless opportunity to save lives on the water.

  • An exciting and challenging role
  • First class Maritime qualifications & training
  • Management & teamwork skills
  • Risk assessment experience
  • Personal development
  • Clear pathways for progression
  • New friendships with like-minded people

Some of our current volunteer vacancies

Auckland - Central Auckland
Coastguard Rescue Vessel Volunteer - Auckland
Coastguard NZ
Do you want to volunteer in a role where the view is different every day? Do you want to volunteer your time in saving lives at sea?
Apply by 31 03 2023
Otago - Dunedin City
Coastguard Rescue Vessel Volunteer - Dunedin
Coastguard NZ
Do you want to volunteer in a role where the view is different every day? Do you want to volunteer your time in saving lives at sea?
Apply by 30 04 2023
Auckland - Warkworth
Coastguard Rescue Vessel Volunteer - Tutukaka
Coastguard NZ
Do you want to volunteer in a role where the view is different every day? Do you want to volunteer your time in saving lives at sea?
Apply by 31 12 2023