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Readiness and Response - overview

In an emergency call 111 or radio a MAYDAY

If a vessel is in distress or a maritime incident is occurring – please notify RCCNZ on 24 hour emergency number 0508 4 RCCNZ (0508 472 269) or VHF 16

Radio a MAYDAY (opens in new tab)

Readiness and Response and Maritime NZ’s role in the system

Major search and rescue operations, major maritime incidents, and national-level oil pollution responses are often complex and resource-intensive.

The National Maritime Response System brings together personnel, plans, procedures, and assets, all of which must be ready to respond in a coordinated way.

Learn more about how readiness and response work and Maritime NZ’ s role in the system.

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. Learn more.

Navigational safety and warnings

Learn more about current warnings, notices to mariners and reporting hazards.

Reporting incidents

Learn more about how to notify Maritime NZ and reporting requirements.

Maritime Incident Readiness and Response Strategy

Access information about search and rescue, maritime incident response and oil pollution response.

Contact us

Use our contact page to ask a question or submit an enquiry — our team will make sure you get the help you need.