Hawke Bay Coastguard has passed a major operational milestone, recording the 500th assist by its rescue vessel Celia Knowles Rescue since the boat entered service in June 2009. The figure reflects more than 15 years of continuous frontline work across one of New Zealand’s largest and most demanding Coastguard operating areas.
The vessel was named in honour of Celia Knowles, whose estate generously funded much of its construction. Designed through a collaboration between De Villiers Yacht Design Ltd and AMF Boat Co Ltd, and built by AMF in Tauranga, the 11.7 metre AMF 1170 QRV RIB was a clear step forward from the earlier 9.0m and 9.5m QRV RHIBs developed for Coastguard New Zealand.
Powered by twin 480hp Cummins diesel engines driving Hamilton 322 jet units, Celia Knowles Rescue combines strong performance with precise control. Capable of speeds approaching 40 knots at design load and cruising comfortably in the high 20 knot range, the vessel delivers excellent range, manoeuvrability, and jet safety during close quarters rescue work. Built entirely from 5083 marine grade aluminium alloy with heavy duty Hypalon tubes, the hull is widely recognised for its soft riding characteristics, a key advantage during long and physically demanding missions.
The scale of the vessel’s workload becomes clear when looking at where, and how far, those assists have taken place. And as Alex Smith—one of the skippers in 2009—points out, recreational boaties are going further afield in search of more rewarding fishing grounds. “With improved electronics and the trend to bigger boats, increasing numbers of fishermen are heading to the reef some 75 nautical miles east of Napier—and often even further afield. Responding to an emergency out there in rough conditions with the Naiad is a tall order.”
Since launch, Celia Knowles Rescue has completed more than 500 assists or tows, with some callouts keeping the crew at sea for up to 11 hours. The vessel has also carried out 174 police taskings, with missions lasting as long as nine hours, alongside (June 2025 figure) 14 Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand taskings that have extended to 12 hours on the water. Operationally, the rescue area has stretched from Mahia in the north to Pourerere in the south, with the furthest recorded assist taking place 52.5 nautical miles from Napier.
The 500th assist occurred over the Waitangi Day weekend 2026, during a busy period that included multiple callouts in challenging conditions. That milestone sits among a wide range of operations, from complex recoveries involving disabled or sinking vessels offshore, to rapid response rescues closer to shore, including kayakers and small craft caught by sudden weather changes.
Beyond emergency response, Celia Knowles Rescue has also become a familiar presence in the local community. School visits, open days, and wharf side interactions give the public a tangible connection to the work Coastguard volunteers carry out year round.
Fifteen years on, the 500 assist milestone stands as a measure of sustained service rather than a single moment. It reflects a well proven vessel, thoughtful design, and the dedication of Hawke’s Bay Coastguard volunteers who continue to respond, day or night, across a vast and often unforgiving stretch of coastline.
