"Water rescue after boat capsizes in Kawhia"

Four people are recovering after their boat capsized on the Kawhia Bar this morning.

At 6.40am on Thursday, 1 December 2016, four people set out on a fishing trip on the 5.3m-long Eager Beaver boat.

As it tried to cross the bar it was hit by a wave that caused the boat to break down before a second wave capsized the vessel.

All those on board were wearing life jackets.

Three were able to swim to shore.

The fourth person was lifted from the water by a passing vessel.

All four were checked over by ambulance staff at the scene.

"What happened this morning is a reminder of how dangerous bar crossings can be," says Senior Sergeant Damion Rangitutia.

"No matter how skilled you are in, or on, the water it's important to be prepared and aware of the conditions.

"In this instance, those on board had taken several precautions.

They were all wearing life jackets and had two forms of communication - a VHF radio and cell phones.

They also logged their bar crossing with the Coastguard, which is great as it enabled a rapid emergency response."

The capsized vessel has not been recovered and may pose a marine hazard.

Anyone planning to take any vessel out in the Kawhia area is urged to be aware and contact the Harbourmaster or Coastguard to get the latest updates.

ENDS

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