A Central Otago District spokesperson said the initiative focused on non-urgent assistance, particularly on the Lake Dunstan Trail, where the coastguard vessel could access lower track sections for retrieval.
Coba was set up last year to run and train experience riders to assist visitors and residents on the district’s extensive trail network.
Coba programme director Chris Foggin said the coastguard could respond to calls from people who were too tired to continue, had a mechanical fault or another issue that did not require a 111 call.
As the Coastguard was a volunteer-run organisation and there were costs for running the vessel, those who wished to be rescued would have to pay.
"Coastguard are happy to come out as long as it’s at the expense of the person who wants to be taken off the trail," he said.
If a Coba ambassador comes across a rider who needs help they can help the rider to get in touch with the coastguard.
Ambassadors were trained to help visitors riding the track had experienced mechanical or first aid issues or those who were lost.
They were also trained in the process of calling the coastguard, should someone want a pickup from the trail and the phone number that they needed to dial.
"They get pinged by satellite to find their location and that information is then co-ordinated with the coastguard to come out and find the person."
