Field Team Volunteer

A keen eye for detail, diversity of thought, resilience, flexibility and being able to operate in a small team are essential attributes for field team volunteers.

You should be fit enough to carry a 24 hour pack, plus some search and rescue team equipment, for 8 hours across mixed terrain.

The ability to look after yourself and others in all weathers in the outdoors is critical. While we do use GPS, you should be confident with a map and compass and cross country navigation.

Commitment, Training & Equipment

Field Team volunteers are called upon to conduct search and rescue operations. This could occur at any time of the day or night. You, your whānau, and your employer should all be comfortable with this possibility.

Land Search and Rescue provides a variety of training for Field Team volunteers. Some of it is provided by professional tutors organised at a national level by Land Search and Rescue and some of it is provided by your local group.

After being trained, you will be able to navigate, apply search techniques, identify possible tracks of the missing person, perform first aid, operate communication systems and GPSs, operate safely around helicopters and cross rivers safely.

The frequency and duration of training will depend on your local group, but most groups train at least once a month, and a couple of weekends a year.

We would like to provide our volunteers with all the equipment they need to perform their role. However, equipping volunteers is expensive, and there are occasions where groups are unable to provide all the equipment necessary. Your local group will be able to explain what equipment, if any, you may need to possess.