Voluntary Board Members

Help shape the future of one of New Zealand's most respected and impactful volunteer organisations.
 
Coastguard Tautiaki Moana (Coastguard) is the country's leading maritime search and rescue organisation, supporting thousands of New Zealanders on the water every year through a dedicated network of volunteers, professional staff and partner agencies.
 
As Coastguard continues to evolve and pursue its long-term ambitions, the Board is seeking two independent Board Members who can help strengthen the Board's collective expertise, networks and strategic capability.
These voluntary positions offer an opportunity to contribute to an organisation of national importance, with a critical public safety mission and a proud history of service to New Zealand communities.
 
The Opportunity
 
The Board is seeking two experienced governance leaders whose collective skills will strengthen Coastguard's ability to navigate a complex and evolving operating environment.
 
A priority for one appointment is senior stakeholder engagement and Wellington connectivity. The ideal candidate will bring the credibility, relationships and judgement gained through operating at senior levels across government, public agencies, Crown entities and other nationally significant organisations. Experience engaging with Ministers, Chief Executives and policy makers, together with an understanding of public sector decision-making, funding and stakeholder environments, will be highly valued.
 
The second appointment is expected to strengthen the Board's capability in strategy, governance and risk. This individual is likely to have held senior executive leadership roles in large and complex organisations and have a proven track record of leading strategic initiatives, organisational transformation and enterprise-wide risk oversight, complemented by governance experience.
 
Across the two appointments, the Board would welcome complementary experience in areas such as maritime operations, search and rescue, emergency services, technology and digital transformation, volunteer-led organisations, fundraising and partnerships, or large scale operational and service delivery environments.
 
About You
 
You will be an accomplished leader with the judgement, perspective and independence required to contribute effectively at Board level. You will bring the confidence to provide constructive challenge and demonstrate a strong commitment to good governance and organisational purpose. An appreciation of the unique dynamics of a volunteer-led organisation, together with a commitment to Coastguard's mission of keeping New Zealanders safe on the water, will be essential.
 
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an organisation that plays a vital role in New Zealand's maritime safety system while helping shape its future direction, capability and long-term sustainability.
 
Please note this is a voluntary appointed member position as opposed to an elected member and is subject to a competitive recruitment process.
 
To apply on a confidential basis, please submit your resume to [email protected] quoting reference number 1265.
 
Applications close: Thursday 17 September 2026