Two people have been returned to shore by Maritime Police after their kayak drifted out to sea off Orere Point, Auckland.
One of the kayakers called 111 at about 8:30pm when it started to get dark and they hadn’t been able to get the vessel back to shore. They had been in the water since 3pm.
Within 25 minutes, Police helicopter Eagle had located the kayak and was able to guide Police launch Deodar III to them to pick the two up.
“Eagle located the kayak and stayed with it until we were able to reach them,” says Sergeant Garry Larsen of the Maritime Unit.
The pair had been in and out of the water and were cold but safe when Police finally brought them on board at 9:45pm.
“Thankfully, both people were wearing life jackets, and they’d taken a waterproof cell phone, so they were prepared for the worst and it may have saved their lives.
“We’d also advise anyone going out on the water to tell someone where they’re going. That way they can sound the alarm.”
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
