The Government has approved $23.1 million for four critical frontline volunteer service organisations to replace storm-damaged assets and provide training and equipment to improve New Zealand’s response to future emergency events.
Transport Minister, Simeon Brown said the Government had reprioritised funding towards critical frontline services to ensure they are “better equipped, prepared and ready to respond to emergencies at short notice”.
The funding confirmed today is:
- $14.6 million for Surf Life Saving New Zealand.
- $3.1 million for Coastguard New Zealand.
- $3.1 million for New Zealand Land Search and Rescue (LSAR).
- $2.3 million for Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC).
“This funding will repair and replace Surf Life Saving assets that were damaged in the 2023 North Island weather events, including a replacement to the Surf Life Saving club at Bethels Beach and repairs to the Mangawhai Heads club that was damaged following a landslide,” said Mr Brown.
“Coastguard New Zealand will replace its base at TÄ«tÄ«rangi which was destroyed in Auckland anniversary floods, with a new base in Onehunga to keep Kiwis safe on the Manukau Harbour, while LSAR and AREC will have funding to increase training and deliver much-needed response equipment to find the lost and assist those who get injured or go missing across the country.”
Surf Life Saving New Zealand lifeguards patrol over 90 locations each summer and provide emergency call-out rescue services throughout New Zealand, saving hundreds of lives each year, said Associate Transport Minister, Matt Doocey.
“This urgently needed investment will lead to quicker, more coordinated responses and ensure that hard-working volunteers have what they need to protect themselves and others,” he said.
Read: Frontline Service Organisations Funding Breakdown.pdf.