08 September 2011

Safety on the Water is Key to NZ’s Marine SAR Agencies

Keeping Kiwis safe at sea is the key element underpinning the re-signing of a Memorandum of Understanding today between New Zealand’s critical marine search and rescue agencies.

The continued collaborative effort between Coastguard New Zealand, New Zealand Police and Maritime New Zealand serves to maintain an effective working relationship, ultimately helping to provide efficient search and rescue services for New Zealander’s.

The memorandum which includes a range of matters also includes each organisation committing to building a cohesive training programme both within their own organisations and jointly, designed to up skill all relevant personnel to maximise their effectiveness in responding to incidents when required.

Colin Small, President of Coastguard New Zealand, says it is great to see the country’s critical marine SAR agencies working towards a common goal of keeping Kiwis safe on the water.

“Our relationship is based on the spirit of goodwill and co-operation. Coastguard is completely committed to upholding our part of the agreement, providing support and guidance where we can in order to make our ocean a fun and safe place to be.”

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed off at Police National Head Quarters by the Police Commissioner Peter Marshall, The Director maritime NZ Catherine Taylor and Coastguard NZ national President Colin Small. Each SAR organisation will also aim to raise awareness of marine SAR services to enhance community understanding and subsequently help keep New Zealander’s out of harm’s way on the water.

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