By 1news.co.nz and is republished with permission
Five men have been rescued after their boat capsized near Puketutu Island this morning, and have been transferred to hospital as a precaution.
Police said the group was fishing when their boat flipped at 8.15am, “throwing them into the water”.
“One of the men was able to call for help as they clung to the hull of the upturned boat.
“The Police Eagle helicopter, Coastguard Papakura and Titirangi, and a hovercraft vessel from Auckland Airport responded. Eagle dropped a float to the one man not wearing a lifejacket, and kept watch as rescuers made their way to the group.”
Police added the five men were in good spirits and were pulled aboard the hovercraft by 9.25am.
“Police are grateful to our partners for responding quickly and getting the group to safety.”
Coastguard Papakura and Titirangi said in a coordinated rescue effort, Police Eagle helicopter, Coastguard Titirangi and Papakura units, and Auckland Airport’s hovercraft swiftly responded to the emergency.
“Thanks to their combined efforts, all five people were safely recovered.
“The dedication and teamwork displayed by our Operations Centre team, our Coastguard volunteers, Police and Auckland Airport demonstrate the strength of working together to bring people home safely.
“This rescue acts as a reminder to anyone heading out on the water this winter to be prepared – check your equipment is in good condition, ensure everyone wears a lifejacket, take two forms of waterproof communication, and stay alert to changing conditions.”
