New Members

We welcome applications from volunteers to join our organisation. See the FAQ and the Training Manual for more detailed information, see below for a summary. We need members who can provide the following skills:

First Response Members

You must be available for SAR call-outs. You will be a front line SAR team member. You must have well developed bushcraft and survival skills. You will provide your own personal equipment (pack, clothing, footwear, torch, compass, etc).

Search Dog Team Members

As above, but with the additional requirement that you and your dog meet the minimum NZLSAR dog standard (PDF). You must be assessed and then reassessed every 12 months).

Incident Management Team (IMT)

• Information Technology: WLSAR needs IT assistance and support for the headquarters team. If you are competent with installation and use of computer hardware, and/or with various software packages, then contact us. Volunteers with the following skills are particularly welcome:
  • database
  • GIS
  • domain administrators
  • networking
• Intel and Planning, Operations, Logistics, and Search Assistants: WLSAR is expanding its management team. We are looking for suitably skilled and experienced SAR team members to join our IMT. Training in CIMS, SAR management and theory training will be provided.

Training

Wellington Land SAR will train SAR first response members in specialised search and rescue skills. First response members are expected to maintain their skill levels by attending 50% of our training exercises and 50% of SAR call-outs per year. This amounts to about 3 to 4 one-day training courses and 1 to 2 weekends per year, plus 2 to 3 days on searches.

Operational Environment

SAR is a 24-hour operation. The operational plan allows for 3 shift changes in a 24-hour period. You must be as competent in the bush at night as you are during the day. You also need employer clearance to ensure your availability.

Our operational area includes both backcountry and urban environments. For the backcountry, you need to be fit enough to keep moving in rough country for 8 hours at a time. Stamina rather than speed is a prerequisite. In the urban environment, some search tasks may only require average levels of fitness. If you are unsure, ask us. Don't be put off if you think you are not fit enough.

If you spend enough time in the hills to maintain your fitness and bushcraft skills, then your fitness should be OK.

It costs nothing to join, except your time. The training bill is picked up by the Police, New Zealand Land SAR and Wellington Land SAR.

To apply for membership use our contact form and select the category "Request to Join Wellington Land SAR".