17/1/2011

Tauranga kayaker Tim Taylor – a month and a half into a solo paddle around New Zealand – had been targeted by thieves who stole crucial equipment from his kayak.

The theft happened at All Day Bay, North Otago- where he was camped overnight.
Items taken included his SPOT which sends out regular updates of his position – so that is a safety issue.

The SPOT is a GPS device which sends a continuous signal to satellites, and these are plotted on a special Google Earth page linked to his website for all to view his progress.

Also taken was his Gopro camera – mounted on a helment – and some paddling clothing.
Tim’s parents Lyn and Paul are acting as his support team. Lyn says the SPOT in particular, is of ‘no use to anyone’ and her reaction is ‘unprintable – because my words wouldn’t be ladylike.’

But she says the theft is really disappointing, as the items are sponsored, and in light of the support he’s received from New Zealanders so far on his trip.
Tim has paddled on towards Karitane however, in spite of the setbeck. He still has an emergency locator beacon to use in a serious emergency.

Tim set off from Waimarino Adventure Park on the Wairoa River in Tauranga, on November 27th Tim Tuim is travelling clockwise on his epic journey which will take three to six months.

ENDS

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