Raglan and Far North surf lifesavers recognised at NZSAR awards

Raglan Surf Life Saving Club took out the top Gold Award for Operational Activity at the NZSAR Awards held last night for the rescue of three people from a boat overturned on the Raglan Bar in December 2024. Far North Surf Rescue was also awarded a Certificate of Achievement-Operational Activity or the rescue of fishermen swept from rocks near Tapotupotu Bay.

The Gold Award for Operational Activity is awarded for a very significant contribution to search and rescue in the New Zealand Search and Rescue Region during 2024.

On 1 December 2024, Police were informed a small fishing boat carrying a family of three had capsized crossing the Raglan Bar. Although the son had been thrown clear and the mother was able to get out of the boat, the father remained trapped in the upturned hull, breathing from a small air pocket. Members of the Raglan Surf Life Saving Club were training nearby with Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRB). They responded immediately and pulled the mother and son from the water. Unable to locate the father, a Surf Lifeguard entered the water to check the boat, cutting his way through tangled fishing line. After banging on the hull and hearing a response from the forward cabin, the surf lifeguard forced open the cabin hatch and pull the trapped man free. These swift actions almost certainly saved the man’s life.

GM Lifesaving, Andy Kent said it is fantastic to see surf lifeguards recognised in this way.

“Surf Lifeguards performed 577 rescues over the summer season, each of them represents people who likely would have lost their lives had surf lifeguards not taken action.

“Both the Raglan and Far North rescues saw surf lifeguards demonstrate exceptional rescue, communication and response skills to ensure patients returned home safely.

“I’d like to congratulate the Raglan and Far North surf lifeguards involved in these exceptional rescues and thank you for your ongoing mahi.”

The NZSAR awards are presented annually in recognition of outstanding achievements within New Zealand’s Search and Rescue Region. Hon. James Meager, Associate Minister for Transport presented two Gold Awards and seven Certificates of Achievement at this year’s ceremony, held at Parliament last night. The Award recipients are selected by the New Zealand Search and Rescue Council.