On Tuesday 20 February, Coastguard Kāpiti Coast held a farewell to thank retiring Central Regional Manager Lesley Slieker.

Coastguard New Zealand’s Central Region currently covers nine units encompassing Taranaki, Central Districts, Wellington, and Tasman and Marlborough. But as a Raumati Primary School and Kāpiti College alumni, Lesley said she has a particularly soft spot for the Kāpiti Coast.

Coastguard Kāpiti Coast President Todd Spencer said for more than eight years, Lesley played a key part in strengthening the connection between local units and Coastguard New Zealand, ensuring volunteers were better supported, resourced and recognised for the vital work they do on the water.

“Lesley’s approach helped shift perceptions of the national organisation, building trust through practical support, advocacy and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by volunteer units,” says Todd.

“She has been a crucial part of our district’s ability to serve both our local efforts and beyond from our Paraparaumu and Waikanae Coastguard sheds.

“Lesley was instrumental in attracting funds and support that helped us create the upstairs crew facility and seal the boat floor at the Paraparaumu Beach Boat Club and purchase a new vessel and build a dedicated Coastguard facility at adjacent to the Waikanae Beach Boat Club.

“She improved rescue assets and operational capability throughout the region so coastguard volunteers are better equipped to save lives when called upon.”

Coastguard Kāpiti Coast Skipper Mark Davidson said when Lesley first started the role, many of the crew were skeptical about the value of the national organisation.

“That changed quickly,” said Mark.

“Lesley earned our trust by quietly getting on with the job - advocating for us, finding solutions, and backing our volunteers. She made a real, lasting difference to our unit.

“Under her leadership, Kāpiti Coast and neighbouring units benefited from improved access to funding for maintenance, training and infrastructure, as well as upgrades to vessels, equipment and facilities.

“This support lifted expectations and standards across the region, enabling units to operate more confidently and sustainably.”

Lesley was also widely acknowledged for her strong advocacy on behalf of units with Coastguard New Zealand, Maritime New Zealand and other partners, particularly during complex or high-profile operational and organisational challenges. Her willingness to do the hard work behind the scenes helped ensure local perspectives were heard and outcomes achieved.

“Lesley was relentless in making sure local units were seen, heard and recognised at a national level,” said Todd.

“Regional units consistently performed strongly in national awards, despite having fewer volunteers than many other regions.

“That didn’t happen by accident. It reflected the environment she created for people to succeed.”

Lesley Slieker said the region’s success was built on partnership and credited volunteers for their commitment and professionalism.

“The people in our units are extraordinary. All they needed was support, guidance and the space to excel, and they delivered,” says Lesley.

As Lesley steps into retirement, Todd said her legacy will continue through the systems, relationships and culture she helped build, and through the people she supported and developed across the region.

“We’re all sad to see her go but are incredibly grateful for her service and helping us save lives at sea.”

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