Through extensive research, development, testing, investigation, and data collection and analysis activities, LandSAR supports R&D projects that advance Search and Rescue, improve emergency response and enhance knowledge and training within the sector. The following are a sample of the consultation, research or development projects we have undertaken or contributed to.

Sound and Light Detection Index Experiment

The POD Trial conducted in Tasman, New Zealand were the first trial of its type anywhere in the world using un-alerted searchers and un-alerted subjects (ie: the trial was conducted as close to operational reality as possible). The data is directly applicable in an operational context, where both the searcher and subject will be unaware of each other until some form of contact is made (voice, whistle, light).

This is the first report in the land search literature of both elements (searcher and subject) of a two-way detection problem. It also, however, represents only a pilot experiment. The true value of the experiment will only be realized with follow-on experiments conducted in different terrains and correction factors (wind, rain, hearing, etc.) determined. Once the additional work is accomplished, the research can move from a research and development phase to actually helping search planners to make practical decisions in the field.

Download pdf

Future Trends Influencing Search and Rescue

Key Findings summary report pdf

This report aims to identify foreseeable patterns and trends in NZ SAR incidents and operational responses through to 2030. Methods included analysis of secondary data sources (primarily demographic projections, incident records) and a review of relevant literature, supported by primary data collection.

The primary objectives of the research are to:

Assess how the structure (age, experience, skills and location etc.) of NZ's SAR volunteer response will be affected by projected population changes to 2030
Identify changes in the nature of SAR callouts (operations) over the next 20 years
Identify how these changes will impact on the training needs of the SAR sector

The report is available in three parts.

Key Findings Report (Executive Summary)
Volume 1: Baselines & trends, demand analysis and detailed projections
Volume 2: Profiles of SAR agency capability

Full report - Vol 1. (2.8mb) pdf

Factors affecting SAR report pdf

Full report - Vol 2 (1.3mb) pdf

Report Presentation pdf

Virtual SAR

LandSAR have provided information and support to Virtual SAR for the development and release of smart phone applications. Available for both Android and Apple by clicking on the Virtual SAR logo.

Vector Forces Guide v2

In 2014 we updated and improved our Vector forces Calculation Guide (VCFG) to incorporate a protractor for better assessment of angles and aligned the text with the relevant windows. Now even easier to use!
Primarily designed as a training tool, it allows users to quickly establish the angles of anchor connections, slope and directional forces and calculate the corresponding load/force.

Rope Rescue & Rigging

SARINZ and LandSAR Training provided background information to Over The Edge Rescue to support the development of the Rope Rescue and Rigging Field Guide by Grant Prattley. LandSAR are pleased to be involved in supporting OTE in this comprehensive waterproof pocket size field guide as well as LandSAR being the key NZ provider of technical rope rescue training as detailed in the guide.

Government Organisations

LandSAR have provided a comprehensive review and update to emergency procedures to ensure best practice transition from the emergency event to the organisations Business Continuity Plan (BCP). LandSAR have also developed and delivered scenarios to test these process and developed a series of 'in-house' scenarios to allow the organisation to practice and maintain its response capability. For commercial reasons we cannot name the two large national multi-site organisations, but both organisations have undertaken extensive training and development projects and are now well equipped to respond to a wide range of incidents.