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Commercial Operators

Seafarers

Recreational boaties

Surveyors and third parties

In an emergency

If something goes wrong on the water, knowing how to raise the alarm and who to contact can save lives. Use this page to find where to go for detailed guidance on distress calls, distress signals, and emergency contacts.

How to call for help

If you are in imminent danger and need immediate help, radio a distress call.

Distress Beacons

Distress or emergency beacons are one of the most effective ways to let people know you need urgent help and where to find you. There are three main types of distress beacons which can be used in different environments:

 

EPIRB (emergency position‑indicating radio beacon)

Best for boats, ships, and other activities on the water. EPIRBs are suitable for most maritime activities and are designed to be carried on a craft. 


 

PLB (personal locator beacon)

PLBs are designed to be carried on a person. They are suitable for tramping, climbing, hunting, remote travel, microlights, balloons, and other outdoor activities. If used for paddling or small craft, the PLB should be able to float and operate in water. 


 

ELT (emergency locator transmitter)

For aircraft only

Distress flares

Distress flares are critical for helping rescuers locate your position. Carry the right flares for your trip and know how to use them safely.

Commercial vessels have rules around what flares they need to carry and the number they need. 

Emergency contacts

In an emergency, knowing who to call and how to reach them quickly is vital.

Before you depart:

  • file a trip report with a trusted shore contact, Maritime radio, Coastguard, or a private coastal marine radio station
  • keep a list of key emergency numbers on board, including the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand, RCCNZ, which is available 24 hours a day.

Reporting of accidents

You must report any accident, incident, or serious harm injury to Maritime NZ as soon as possible after it occurs. Reporting allows lessons to be shared across the boating community.

You can also report any instances of unsafe boating you see to Maritime NZ. If someone’s life is in danger, contact NZ Police on 111. 

Oil spills

You must report any sighting of an oil spill, or any involvement in an oil spill, to:

  • Maritime NZ
  • the relevant harbourmaster.

Contact us

If you want to ask a question or submit an enquiry, use our online contact form