AREC - Amateur Radio Emergency Communications

"To be the preferred provider for emergency communications to New Zealand emergency services."

About AREC

Amateur Radio has been a key player in the Emergency Communications area since the early 1930s; The Napier Earthquake of 1931 encouraged Amateurs from across NZ to establish an effective and coordinated emergency communications means. Since that day Amateurs have been serving their communities in times of need; via Amateur Radio Emergency Communications. For more info please refer to the Official AREC Site at NZART.

About Wellington VHF Group AREC

Our AREC Section - ably led by John Yaldwyn ZL4JY and his deputies - is an active participant in national AREC events. AREC's 'core' activities at present can be summarised into three primary areas of expertise:

  • Search and Rescue Communications support, in support of NZ Land SAR and the New Zealand Police;
  • Civil Defence and Emergency Management assistance, in support of local city and district councils and CDEMG's.
  • Public Service Communications for non-profit organisations, such as sporting or community events.

Wellington VHF Group has a strong relationship with the Wellington Emergency Management Office (WEMO), our AREC section is an active component of local CDEM response. We are also closely tied to Wellington Land SAR and are called upon by NZ Police to assist in searches in the greater Wellington region, in conjunction with other local AREC sections (especially Hutt and Kapiti groups.).

For recent news and views on AREC Matters please check out the AREC News Section.