The Government has announced it will invest $63.6 million over four years into Surf Life Saving New Zealand and Coastguard New Zealand as part of Budget 2024.
“Heading to the beach for a day of fun in the water is part of the Kiwi way of life, particularly in summer. With that comes inherent risk and these frontline organisations do critical work to help ensure people can head home safely,” says Transport Minister Simeon Brown.
“This funding will ensure that Surf Life Saving New Zealand and Coastguard New Zealand can continue to deliver water safety services, save lives, and keep up their efforts to reduce New Zealand’s high drowning toll on the water and beaches,” he says.
“Costs are rising across the board for these largely volunteer-driven organisations. The funding will cover operational expenses for both organisations as well as rescue equipment, facilities, and maintenance.
“The work of close to 4,500 volunteer lifeguards at Surf Life Saving New Zealand provides the public with an incredible service. I want to thank all of those people who help keep Kiwis safe in, on, or around the water for the work that they do each summer.”
Brown says the funding injection will contribute to lifeguard training and gear, beach and coastal safety initiatives, as well as maintaining and upgrading lifesaving club buildings.
“Coastguard New Zealand rescues over 6,000 people who get into trouble on the water each year and, with demand for their water safety services growing, this funding will ensure they can continue to deliver their essential prevention and rescue services,” he says.
Funding for Coastguard New Zealand will cover personal protective equipment, critical marine communications equipment, and the continued provision of emergency call-out rescue services for recreational boat users who get into trouble out on the water.
“New Zealand has a tragically high drowning toll, and this Government is committed to investing in these frontline organisations so they continue their work saving hundreds of lives each year and ensuring thousands of people return home safe after a day at the beach or on the water.”