Update – Browns Island

Auckland Police have today spoken with the woman rescued off Browns Island yesterday evening.
 
The Auckland woman, aged in her 30s, was admitted to Auckland Hospital yesterday evening for treatment but has now been released and is resting at home.
 
Following reports of a fire on Browns Island yesterday evening, the Police Eagle helicopter identified a woman on the island. The Police Maritime Unit vessel, Deodar, picked her up and took her to the mainland.
 
Detective Sergeant Tony McKenzie says Police have concerns for the woman’s mental wellbeing. She was treated at hospital for dehydration and is now in a relatively good condition. 
 
“We’re still trying to ascertain how she came to be on the island, and we have further enquiries to complete into that. This will include conducting a scene examination, in conjunction with the rural fire service, to establish the circumstances.
 
“She’s told us she was left stranded there on Monday afternoon for three nights, and that she was able to access food and shelter in a hut on the island. She had lit, and then later extinguished, small fires to attract attention for help from passing boats but yesterday evening’s fire had got out of her control due to winds. 
 
“We’d like to hear from anyone who may have seen the woman on the island since Monday or saw activity on or near the island on Monday afternoon.”
 
Information can be given to Auckland Crime Squad 09 3026557 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
 
Ends
 
Kim Chambers / NZ Police