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 Joining LandSAR

New Members

We welcome applications from volunteers to join our organisation. We require all volunteers to take part in an induction exercise.

See 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 will be a front line LandSAR team member. You must have:

  • well developed bushcraft and survival skills
  • an above average level of fitness
  • good bush navigation skills including off-track navigation
  • all your own personal equipment appropriate to be self-supported for 48 hours in the bush (pack, clothing, footwear, torch, compass, etc).
  • you must be available for SAR callouts 24/7

For more details see first response standards document.

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: LSARW 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: LSARW 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

LandSAR Wellington 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, with a full pack, in sometimes difficult weather conditions for 8 hours at a time. Stamina rather than speed is a prerequisite. If you are unsure about your fitness, ask us.

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 LandSAR and LandSAR Wellington.

Joining LandSAR Wellington

To apply for membership fill out and submit our online application form.

Nationally, LandSAR is experiencing a high volume of membership enquiries.  LandSAR Wellington currently has a waiting list for prospective members.  We run an induction process each quarter to assess the skills of those on the waiting list.  Because we have limited training resources available, we prioritise prospective members according to skill level.  Those with SAR skills or advanced bushcraft skills may be scheduled for an induction assessment sooner, but the current waiting time for most applicants is 3-6 months.