Jeff Cramp
Coastguard Hokianga
A founding member and one of Coastguard Hokianga’s longest-serving volunteers (for over 29 years), Jeff Cramp is a Master, Training Officer, President, Coastguard Instructor, Unit Crew Coordinator, Police Liaison and Coastguard delegate.
Known for his incredible capacity to manage adverse situations calmly and diligently, Jeff also brings huge enthusiasm and humour to team training sessions. His passion for helping people in need is evident in his commitment, initiatives and energetic engagement over the years. In fact, Jeff is known as the ‘super glue’ of the unit, ensuring everyone in the team feels seen, valued and supported.
Among his many achievements over the years, he has planned and coordinated major SAREXs, established a Junior Coastguard, and was instrumental in securing funding for the unit’s dedicated rescue vessels. An outstanding volunteer, Jeff leads by example, sharing from his own vast knowledge base and many rescue experiences, on and off the water.
Arne Pallentin
Coastguard Wellington
Arne has demonstrated exceptional leadership that has transformed Coastguard Wellington. His innovative and motivational style has created a positive culture that’s all about teamwork and continuous improvement.
Under his guidance, the unit has seen enhanced community engagement, improved safety protocols, expanded training opportunities – and a consistent, proactive approach to health and safety. Arne’s open-door policy has fostered trust and open communication, resulting in a significant increase in volunteer satisfaction and commitment – and creating a tight-knit team where volunteers feel valued.
Importantly, Arne leads by example. During a particularly challenging search operation this winter, he worked tirelessly alongside the crew for over 12 hours in very tough conditions. As always, his selfless dedication inspired the team to push through, ultimately saving lives.
A humble leader who genuinely believes that serving others is its own reward, Arne commands genuine respect and admiration from his team. A truly outstanding leader.
John Quinn
Coastguard Queenstown
John’s leadership as President of Coastguard Queenstown has been nothing less than exemplary. Under his guidance, the unit has implemented advanced training programmes, improved rescue operations, and enhanced community outreach efforts. John’s strategic vision, innovative thinking and expertise has been pivotal in ensuring the team is well-prepared and motivated to handle any situation that arises.
A natural mentor and all round ‘great guy’, John has fostered a culture of continuous learning and development as well as camaraderie and trust. Under his leadership, Coastguard Queenstown has achieved many remarkable milestones – including successfully coordinating rescue missions, securing essential funding, improving visibility and increasing community participation in safety programmes.
John’s immense contribution doesn’t stop there. As an active member of the Queenstown Toastmasters Club, he’s been involved in local events and safety campaigns to help raise awareness about water safety. An outstanding leader, John’s incredible commitment to volunteering has made a lasting impact on many lives.
Wayne Williams
Coastguard Bluff
Wayne Williams is a long-standing volunteer for Coastguard Bluff, often known as the ‘glue’ of the unit. As a Board Member and Skipper, he’s likely to be on any callout and his knowledge and experience are greatly valued.
Many times, he has led volunteers through extremely challenging situations, always building trust and respect from colleagues and the community alike. His professional attitude and dedication are legendary, not only within the unit, but also in the wider community. Wayne’s ‘solid mana’ within the community helps considerably with fundraising, educating the public and recruitment, while his knowledge, relationship building skills and dedication have earned the trust and respect of our SAR partners.
Wayne has been integral to growing the unit’s volunteer capability, sacrificing personal and family time to ensure crew are given every opportunity to progress. As his team says…Wayne is the RIGHT person, in the RIGHT place, at the RIGHT time!