At Coastguard we’re all about people being responsible boaties, but we also want you to be responsible fishos out there.
Learn
![Drawing of white and blue dive flag](/media/1363/dive-flag-800x600.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=400&height=300&rnd=132366502200000000)
Looking out for divers
The role of boatperson is a key one for a safe and enjoyable dive. Establish and agree on a plan before leaving the boat.
![Diver with scuba gear](/media/1162/diving-cc-image.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=400&height=300&rnd=131817969080000000)
Safety under the water
Taking a minute to prep and get ready for diving will make sure you get home safe with a good haul.
![clean NZ environment](/media/1211/lawton-neil-01.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=400&height=300&rnd=132366483850000000)
Protecting our marine environment
Here are three easy ways to keep yourself out of trouble and our marine environment clean.
![Markers on a maritime chart](/media/1149/boating-education.jpg?crop=0.022222222222222223,0,0.52763532763532761,0&cropmode=percentage&width=400&height=300&rnd=132366483700000000)
Courses for new boaties
Check out a range of boating courses for all levels including the Day Skipper, Maritime VHF Radio Operators, VHF Callsigns and more.
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Day Skipper
The Day Skipper course is suitable for all members of the family or crew, and applies to a wide range of vessels including yachts, launches, powerboats, jet skis, sea kayaks, and more.
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Maritime VHF Operator Certificate
Learn how to correctly operate a maritime VHF radio
![Men working with boat charts](/media/1191/boatmaster2.jpg?center=0.28699551569506726,0.6317567567567568&mode=crop&width=400&height=300&rnd=132366494850000000)
Boatmaster
The Boatmaster course is a comprehensive course for boaties with current knowledge and experience encompassing a wide range of vessels such as yachts, launches and powerboats.
![Iveco marine engine](/media/1208/inboard-engines.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=400&height=300&rnd=131821379700000000)
Inboard Engine Maintenance
The inboard engine course is for anyone who wants to gain essential knowledge on the operation and care of inboard diesel engines.
![Man working on outboard engine](/media/1438/working-on-motor.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=400&height=300&rnd=132366474470000000)
Outboard Engine Maintenance
Coastguard receives more callouts for mechanical issues than anything else.
![Navigator](/media/1169/gps-operator-banner-1500-550.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=400&height=300&rnd=131819621070000000)
GPS Operator
A great course for boaties who wish to understand how to use chart plotters and techniques for more complex navigation tasks.
Boatie's Best Mate.
Get a Coastguard membership today for peace of mind when you’re out boating.