Media Release
29 May 2012

Local Funding Helps Coastguard Nelson Keep Boaties Safe

Boaties in the region will soon benefit from the sponsorship of the Coastguard Nelson Unit by local business First National Real Estate and a newly operational Coastguard vessel.

Under the agreement, First National Real Estate is providing cash support to help fund the Unit’s operational and administrative costs.

President of Coastguard Nelson, Ian Shaw, says the ongoing support of the local community is crucial.

“The contributions from First National Real Estate will be instrumental in the Unit continuing to save lives at sea. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with their team”.

Mark Rumsey from First National Real Estate says it was an easy decision to align with Coastguard Nelson.

“Spending time on the water is a favourite pastime for many of us living in this gorgeous part of the country. Knowing that there is always the support of Coastguard every time we go out is extremely reassuring. The work the volunteers do is fantastic and being able to help the crew out is the least we can do to say thank you.”

The Unit also has another reason to celebrate with its newly operational rescue vessel now on the water. Gifted from Coastguard Whakatane last year, the 8.5m Naiad replaced the ageing Brede Class lifeboat which was originally in service.

Mr Shaw says volunteers from the Unit are looking forward to getting the new vessel out on the water and using it to help bring local boaties safely home.

“Every day our volunteers risk their lives to save New Zealanders in trouble on the water and they don’t ask a cent for the work, just the right equipment and training that they need to do the job safely.”

Coastguard Nelson will be hosting a naming blessing for the vessel in conjunction with the celebration of its new sponsorship. Friends of Coastguard and members of the public are invited to attend.

When: Saturday 9 June 2012 at 10.00am

Where: Sealord Rescue Centre, Wakefield Quay, Nelson

Coastguard Nelson has been providing marine search and rescue services in the local region since it was formed by a group of boaties in 1977. Today the Unit is run by 27 active and professionally trained volunteers. Last year, the Unit gave 285 hours to the community, responded to call for assistance and rescued 7 people. This year (July 2011 to April 2012) these volunteers have dedicated 1065 hours serving this community.

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