Four people are recovering after being rescued from Porirua Harbour this morning.
Police were called at about 1100 to a report that a small boat had capsized.
Four people were in the water. One was clinging to the boat’s semi-submerged hull about 200 metres from shore. Three other people attempted to swim to shore, but ended up holding onto rocks about 50 metres from the coastline.
A Police officer entered the water together with members of the public to assist those on the rocks and bring them safely to shore.
The Coastguard then arrived on the scene and two Police officers have then entered the water and retrieved the exhausted male who was clinging onto the boat.
An ambulance attended to provide treatment for hypothermia and the swallowing of sea water, with three people being transported to Wellington Hospital for observation. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was also in attendance.
While Police are pleased everyone is safe, it was noted lifejackets, while being available, were not being worn.
With winter just behind us and the water becoming more attractive for recreation, now is a good time to remind all boaties of the importance to always wear a lifejacket.
ENDS
Police Media Centre