Update on Iron Maiden search

Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) continue to coordinate a search and rescue operation launched off Cape Reinga last night.

At approximately 4:30am searchers recovered the body of one of the missing crew members.

At approximately 7:30am the RNZAF Orion located the Iron Maiden’s life raft.

The NIWA vessel Tangaroa was asked to retrieve the life raft and at about 8:00am confirmed that the life raft was empty.

2 fishing vessels, the Brac and the Glory Days continue are still helping out in the search area.

The RNZAF Orion is searching a new area based on current information.

A land SAR team is sweeping the coastline at Ninety-Mile Beach.

A helicopter is on stand by at Te Paki Station, Cape Reinga, to assist the search if required.

Current weather conditions in the area are cloudy with a SW wind gusting to 40 knots and a heavy swell.

An update will be sent when further information comes to hand.