A four-day kayaking trip ended in a major rescue for one man after his vessel took on water in Beachlands on Thursday night.
It was a case of all hands-on deck when a kayaker was spotted in distress near Second View Avenue at about 7.20pm.
A person on shore saw what was unfolding and called 111.
The Police Eagle helicopter quickly took to the sky and located the man about one kilometre offshore.
The Auckland Police Maritime Unit also deployed aboard Police RHIB 3, along with land-based Police units to assist with the response.
“He wasn’t wearing a life jacket and was struggling to stay afloat,” says Acting Inspector Garry Larsen.
“Eagle hovered close to the surface and deployed an inflatable throw stick, which he was able to use to stay afloat.”
“We signalled a nearby recreational fishing vessel to assist, and the man was safely pulled from the water.”
Acting Inspector Larsen says he was then transported by Police to the Maraetai Boat Ramp where he was met by paramedics for assessment and treatment.
“The man had been undertaking a four-day kayaking trip from Kawakawa Bay when it appears he lost his balance, capsized, and his kayak subsequently sank.
“We estimate he spent about two hours in the water before being rescued and was displaying obvious signs of prolonged cold-water exposure.
“This is a timely reminder that the conditions on the water can change quickly, and even a short time in cold water can be dangerous,” he says.
“If you’re heading out on the water, wear a properly fitted lifejacket, check the conditions, and take two forms of communication.”
Acting Inspector Larsen says the rescue demonstrated excellent coordination between Police Emergency Communications and Dispatch, the Maritime Unit, Eagle, the assisting vessel, and the member of the public who raised the alarm.
“This could have had a very different outcome and we’re all incredibly grateful we were able to bring this man home to his family.”
