‘‘Providing skilled volunteers, enabling essential communications to support Search & Rescue, Disaster relief and our community.’’

Who do we work with?

Our professional volunteers offer their specialist communications and technical skills free to the public in support of the search and rescue sector, civil defence, and other emergency services. This service runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via the New Zealand Police, the Rescue Coordination Centre, and other lead agencies such as NEMA/CD and FENZ. AREC also provides communication and technical support to community and sporting events.

What's in it for you?

As a member of AREC, you will be able to enjoy such benefits as local and national training, participation in SAR exercises and search operations. You will also enjoy the common interest and camaraderie of fellow AREC members, our newsletters, and meetings in your local district.

Once you join as a member, you will be issued with an identification card, and get access to AREC branded clothing. Most of all, you will be supporting people in distress, and in your community.

What do you need to do to join?

To join AREC, you must have, and maintain a financial membership with NZART.  Talk to your local AREC Group Leader. From there,

  • Fill out an AREC application form, confirmation of AREC Rules.
  • Provide a PASSPORT SIZED photo to Administration or your District Manager
  • Attend a local AREC Group meeting
  • You will be sent an induction pack which will include your AREC ID card.

Use this link: Register with AREC to commence the registration process.

If you have any concerns on any of the above, please contact our AREC Team on membership@arec.nz who are happy to help.

This is a great opportunity to apply your radio and technical know-how to benefit people in distress, while providing a service to the community.