Police staff with local launchmaster qualifications operate the RHIB's. An extensive training course was run for some months to provide the 26 launchmasters needed.

Two staff on each boat were trained as crewmen and the third was the Sergeant or Senior Constable in charge of the RHIB. One of the three was also trained to take over boat handling tasks if needed.

The training program included sessions with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Auckland Regional Authority Harbour Master and the Auckland Volunteer Coast Guard. They had plenty of practice on the harbour with annual 'Mini America's Cup' regattas.