These awards are more than a moment of recognition—they are a testament to the strength of community spirit, leadership, and dedication that fuel Coastguard volunteers day in and day out. Whether patrolling the skies, coordinating rescues, or engaging local communities, these selfless individuals are the unsung heroes of New Zealand’s waters.
A Proud History of Coastguarding in New Zealand
Coastguard New Zealand’s story began in the 19th century, driven by the need to protect the growing maritime community of a nation surrounded by ocean. What started as a few scattered lifesaving stations has evolved into a national volunteer force that patrols coastlines, rivers, and lakes, ensuring the safety of New Zealanders on the water.
Throughout its history, the Coastguard has been a beacon of community involvement and self-reliance. With over 2,000 volunteers today, it is one of New Zealand’s largest and most respected volunteer-based organisations. Its mission remains the same: to provide search and rescue services, maritime safety education, and to foster the next generation of Coastguard volunteers.
Recognising the 2024 Coastguard Award Winners
This year’s Coastguard Volunteer Awards of Excellence honoured volunteers and units for their extraordinary efforts in search and rescue, leadership, and community engagement. The standout heroes of 2024 are as follows:
Supreme Volunteer of the Year & Outstanding Leadership Award: Jeff Cramp, Coastguard Hokianga
Jeff’s exceptional leadership and commitment to Coastguard Hokianga have earned him the highest recognition this year. His ability to inspire others and take charge during critical moments reflects the very best of Coastguard New Zealand’s values.
Air Patrol Volunteer of the Year: John McDowell, Auckland Coastguard Air Patrol
John’s vigilance and skill as part of the Auckland Air Patrol has made a tangible difference in saving lives. His dedication to patrolling the skies over New Zealand’s waters is a testament to the vital role of air support in maritime safety.
Support Volunteer of the Year: Lisa Delaveau, Coastguard Marlborough
Lisa’s work behind the scenes in Marlborough has been crucial to the success of Coastguard operations. Her unwavering support and organisational skills help keep the unit running smoothly, ensuring that those on the water are safe.
Community Engagement Unit of the Year: Coastguard Marlborough
Coastguard Marlborough was recognised for its outstanding connection with the local community. Their efforts in education and safety outreach have created a culture of preparedness and awareness, making the waters safer for everyone.
Rescue of the Year: South Taranaki Coastguard
In a year full of critical rescues, South Taranaki Coastguard stood out for their quick thinking and bravery during a life-threatening emergency. Their professionalism and dedication during a high-pressure operation resulted in lives saved, reflecting the very essence of Coastguard New Zealand.
Unit of the Year: Coastguard Queenstown
Coastguard Queenstown’s exceptional performance throughout the year made them the deserving recipient of Unit of the Year. Their team spirit, dedication to safety, and numerous successful rescue missions set a standard for excellence in New Zealand’s southern waters.
Emerging Young Volunteer of the Year: Jessica Cameron, Coastguard Marlborough
Jessica is a shining example of the future of Coastguard New Zealand. At a young age, her dedication to helping others and her enthusiasm for learning have already made a significant impact within her unit. Jessica’s award highlights the importance of fostering youth involvement in maritime safety.
Communications or IMT Volunteer of the Year: Ian Gabites, Coastguard Taranaki
Ian’s calm, clear communication and ability to manage complex situations have been critical to the success of Coastguard Taranaki’s operations. His work behind the scenes has saved lives, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
Heroes on the Water and Behind the Scenes
While these award winners represent the best of 2024, they are just a small part of the larger Coastguard family. Every volunteer, whether recognised at the awards or not, contributes to a vital mission—keeping New Zealanders safe on the water. From those who patrol the roughest seas to the quiet heroes who manage communications or maintain equipment, each volunteer’s role is crucial to the Coastguard’s success.
Coastguard volunteers are there when they’re needed most, often risking their own safety to save lives. Their efforts, whether on the water or onshore, embody the spirit of giving that makes the Coastguard such an invaluable part of New Zealand’s community fabric.
Coastguard: A Pillar of the Community
Coastguard New Zealand is not only about search and rescue—it is deeply embedded in the communities it serves. Through education, training, and public engagement, the Coastguard ensures that future generations are prepared to safely enjoy the country’s waters.
As demonstrated by Coastguard Marlborough’s win for Community Engagement Unit of the Year, the organisation’s reach goes far beyond responding to emergencies. By engaging local communities, they help to prevent incidents before they happen, creating a culture of safety that benefits everyone.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Having personally been the recipient of help from the Whangamata Coastguard this year, I can wholeheartedly say the 2024 Coastguard Volunteer Awards of Excellence remind us all of the incredible contributions made by Coastguard volunteers. Their tireless work ensures that New Zealand’s waters are safer for everyone, whether it’s a family out on a Sunday sail or a commercial vessel navigating the coastline.
To every Coastguard volunteer, thank you. Your service saves lives, and protects communities. Whether you patrol the skies, rescue on the water, or support behind the scenes, your efforts make a difference every single day. Here’s to another year of keeping New Zealand’s waters safe and to the unsung heroes who make it possible.
