Question 1

Do I need to reserve a hire beacon?

Accepted Answer

A reservation is not usually required. You can normally walk into a participating Southland Locator Beacons hire outlet and hire a PLB. We recommend contacting your intended outlet a few days before pickup to confirm availability and opening hours, especially during holidays, peak season or when you need several beacons.

Question 2

How much does it cost to hire a personal locator beacon?

Accepted Answer

Our standard hire rates are $30 for up to three days, $40 for one week and $70 for two weeks. Each additional week is $30, and hires costing more than $100 receive a 20% discount. Check our Hire page for the latest pricing before collection.

Question 3

Can I collect a beacon from one outlet and return it to another?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can collect from one participating Southland Locator Beacons outlet and return the beacon to another participating outlet. A relocation or restocking fee may apply, so tell the pickup outlet where you intend to return it.

Question 4

Can overseas visitors hire a PLB in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Overseas visitors can hire a PLB through our participating outlet network. Contact your intended pickup outlet before arriving to confirm availability, opening hours and any identification or payment requirements.

Question 5

What is included with a hired PLB?

Accepted Answer

Each hire includes an ACR ResQLink GPS personal locator beacon, a protective pouch and a belt. The hire details are recorded so our administration team can quickly provide relevant information to rescue authorities if the beacon is activated.

Question 6

What happens if I activate a hired beacon?

Accepted Answer

If there is grave and imminent danger to life, activate the beacon immediately. Never delay because of a possible service charge. After any activation, the beacon must be professionally serviced before it can be hired again. The current hire terms explain any battery-service contribution that may apply.

Question 7

What should I do if I cannot return the beacon on time?

Accepted Answer

Contact Southland Locator Beacons or the return outlet as soon as possible. Additional hire charges may apply until the beacon is returned, but letting us know also prevents unnecessary concern when a hire becomes overdue.

Personal Locator Beacon FAQs