New Zealand Search and Rescue (NZSAR) is concerned that a range of SEND devices (satellite messengers with an SOS function), will be assumed by users to be the same as a PLB (a personal locator beacon). However, SENDs aren’t subject to the same legalisation or standardisation as are PLBs.

“It’s one of the main misconceptions we’re trying to solve as a sector,” said Tania Seward, NZSAR senior advisor. “When people work out they want a PLB – which is fantastic – often they post on Facebook and people will recommend them a SEND. The issue is that it’s a satellite device and not a PLB.”

PLB’s have a built-in location device; a helicopter will still be able to locate a hiker even     if they move due to a situation like a rising river. “They’re fantastic if you’re in trouble and need to get a message out quickly. You can’t specify if it’s a broken leg or a heart attack like you can with a SEND, but the benefit is their accuracy.”

SEND systems rely on GPS coordinates sent at the time of activation and Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand isn’t the registering agent for these devices.

“I think a key message is if you’re going to buy a PLB, make sure it’s a New Zealand-coded beacon. That’s one that has been set up for use here and its registration details are in New Zealand, which you can check online,” says Seward.

Roughly one in three land-based rescues follow beacon activation, compared to five years ago, where it was one in six.