An aerial view of Maritime NZ’s new satellite receiving station between Rotorua and Taupo.

Construction complete on new satellite receiving station

30 October 2015

Maritime NZ has marked the completion of construction on a new satellite receiving station between Rotorua and Taupo.

The new site, part of a joint project with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), will speed up rescues for people setting off distress beacons when it goes on line next year. It utilises a new generation of satellites, of which there are more than three times the number orbiting than current search and rescue satellites. Read more: http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/news/media-releases-2015/20151029a.asp

Maritime NZ General Manager Safety and Response Services Nigel Clifford (left) and Taupo rescue helicopter pilot John Funnell, with a range of distress beacons.