Jet boat accident - Hastings
"Jet boat accident - Hastings - Eastern"
Emergency services are at the scene of a boating accident on the Ngaruroro River about 10km west of Hastings. The incident happened just after midday. A jet boat carrying 5 people has crashed in to some willow trees on the bank of the river after losing control. The jet boat was with two other jet boats that were travelling down the river. The other two boats were further upstream when the crash happened and only discovered it when they went back down the river to see where they were.
The driver of the boat has been struck by a branch and died instantly. One of the passengers is in a critical condition and was flown by Rescue Helicopter to Hawkes Bay Hospital. The remaining three passengers have minor injuries and will be treated at Hawkes Bay Hospital.
All occupants of the boat were wearing life jackets at the time of the crash. The deceased is a 51 year old male from New Plymouth area.
The circumstances of the
accident will be investigated by Maritime Safety and Police,
while the death will be reported to the
Coroner.