A new Coastguard base north of Wellington has opened today, making it easier for rescuers to launch

Waikanae Coastguards now have their own boat-shed, after 40 years of having to depart their vessels from Paraparaumu.

Working with Kapiti Coastguards, they average 40 callouts a year between Porirua and Foxton.

Waikanae Boating Club member Chris Turver, says it's crucial infrastructure with more amateurs at sea.

He says boating's become more popular, and people are getting larger boats, so they need to be closer to them out of trouble.