Caltex thanks Coastguard for their involvement in Christchurch's relief efforts

Coastguard units who lent a helping hand in the aftermath of the Canterbury earthquake have been thanked for their efforts by fuel company, Caltex.

To recognise the selfless work of the volunteers in the region, Caltex has donated $1,500 of fuel to the local units who rallied together without hesitation to help Christchurch.

Relief efforts by volunteers from Coastguard’s Kaikoura, Sumner and Canterbury units involved helping out at the city’s welfare centres, assisting at the Sumner Fire Station, retrieving vital pieces of property from within cordoned-off areas and ensuring residents were able to get into their houses safely.

Regional Manager for Coastguard Southern Region, Cheryl Moffat, says the charity is extremely grateful for the donation.

“Our volunteers don’t help out in want of recognition. They simply want to help our communities and this was a time when help was needed most.

“We are extremely thankful to the team at Caltex for their support and this donation will definitely help our Canterbury units continue the great work they are doing there.”

Sharon Buckland, Policy, Government and Public Affairs Manager for Chevron New Zealand says showing their appreciation for Coastguard’s assistance was an easy decision.

“The help of a small group of volunteers like those from Coastguard make a big difference in the relief efforts of Christchurch and Caltex is delighted to give something back as a token of thanks.”

Coastguard units around New Zealand recently sent out their own call for help as they appealed to the public for funding support during their inaugural MayDay appeal, aimed at raising funds to support its critical volunteer support programme ‘Train One- Save Many’.

For more information about Coastguard New Zealand visit www.coastguard.co.nz