Water rescue in Hutt Valley

Hutt Valley Police, assisted by Fire, Ambulance and Civil Defence Rescue Teams, were called to an incident just after 9.00pm tonight where a vehicle became stuck in the river under Totara Park Bridge.

When emergency services arrived, the two occupants of the vehicle had climbed from inside the vehicle onto the roof as the water began to rise.

Due to the rising waters, police requested the assistance of the Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt Civil Defence Rescue Teams (NZRT18 and NZRT09) who are trained in swift water rescue, along with the Police Dive Team.

Fortunately, the two occupants were able to be provided with lifejackets, and ropes were thrown to the vehicle to pull them out.

Once safely ashore, it appeared alcohol may have been a factor in the incident.

Police are disappointed in the poor judgement shown by these individuals and the risk they posed to themselves and those coming to their rescue, by attempting to drive in the water in these conditions.

Police would like to thank those emergency services, including the Civil Defence Rescue Teams, who responded quickly to ensure the pairs’ safety.

Police are talking to the pair about what happened.

ENDS

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