Leah Sinton
Coastguard North Shore
Leah is an exceptional volunteer, joining Coastguard North Shore at 19 and quickly progressing to Qualified Crew. She has logged over 600 hours on the water, responding to callouts, assisting with launch and retrieval operations as a tractor driver, and participating in many TRAINEX and SAREX exercises. Leah also helps plan and run on-water training for her crew, sharing her knowledge and improving operational readiness.
As Unit Crew Coordinator, she has successfully onboarded a dozen new volunteers, strengthened recruitment campaigns, and created an inclusive, supportive environment that encourages retention and team cohesion. Off the water, Leah manages Summer Lottery ticket sales, contributes to maintenance nights, and volunteers at community events, always leading by example with professionalism, positivity, and dedication.
Balancing full-time university study with her extensive volunteer commitments, Leah’s energy, mentorship, and leadership make her an amazing role model for young volunteers.
Ryan Spence
Coastguard Marlborough
Ryan joined Coastguard Marlborough at just 15 and has quickly become a valued member of the unit. His energy, positivity, and willingness to step up make him an inspiration to both peers and younger volunteers. From braving winter water survivability training to leading rescue simulations, Ryan consistently demonstrates courage, initiative, and enthusiasm.
He has taken a proactive role in developing the Youth Programme, mentoring 10 young volunteers alongside 6 youth leaders, while also attending committee meetings and governance training to grow his leadership skills. His ideas - like improving patient transport with quick-release wrist straps and creating a gym space for crew fitness - show his passion for getting involved and making a difference.
Ryan’s maturity, selflessness, and drive have strengthened unit culture, encouraged continuous improvement, and supported Coastguard’s mission of keeping Kiwis safe on the water.
Holly Coplestone
Coastguard South Taranaki
Holly has been a breath of fresh air since joining South Taranaki two years ago. From early on, she took on responsibility as Secretary and Treasurer and single-handedly maintains the unit’s Facebook page, bringing energy and organisation to the team.
Her commitment to training is exceptional. Holly has excelled across all modules, surpassed many peers, and is already working towards her senior qualification with the goal of becoming a Master. She regularly travels to New Plymouth to train with Coastguard Taranaki and impressed fellow volunteers at the 2024 TRAINEX and the inaugural Women in SAR course.
Holly’s enthusiasm extends to the community, leading public education visits and engaging schools with professionalism and warmth. Her initiative in fundraising has also doubled Summer Lottery ticket sales.
Reuben Haigh
Coastguard Riverton
Reuben is a highly dedicated volunteer whose passion for boating and commitment to Coastguard Riverton are clear in everything he does. Since joining in 2021, he has achieved Qualified Crew and is progressing towards Senior and Skipper, often travelling from Invercargill to attend callouts. His presence at training, callouts, and committee meetings is consistently high, inspiring others to follow his example.
Practical, calm, and technically skilled, Reuben adapts quickly to new vessels and electronics, and he shares his knowledge generously with fellow crew. He also demonstrates maturity beyond his years, looking out for colleagues, supporting learning, and openly discussing challenging experiences to help others grow.
During the major Riverton bar incident in August 2024, Reuben applied his first aid training immediately and confidently, showing initiative under pressure. His dedication, technical expertise, and leadership potential make him a strong role model and a vital asset to the unit.