Lookout! – Issue 15
21 December 2009
Guidance notice – Issue 17:
Long-range identification and tracking (LRIT) equipment testing
21 December 2009
30 December 2008 - 2:00PM
The runabout missing in the Bay of Plenty has been located by a rescue helicopter approximately five kilometres to the west of Motiti Island and 15 kilometres north of Tauranga.
It appears that all five people on board are safe and well. The vessel, with two adults and three children on board, was reported overdue yesterday morning from a snorkeling trip trip to Motunau Island.
Four people have been lifted on board the Phillips Rescue helicopter and taken to Tauranga airport to be reunited with their families.
The owner has elected to stay on board his boat and is being towed into Tauranga by a Coastguard vessel.
Rescue Coordination Centre Mission Controller, Tracy Brickles, said that the rescue team was delighted with the successful outcome and wished to thank all those who were involved, particularly the large number of volunteers who had taken part in the search.
"Police, Coastguard, Surf Lifesaving, the Airforce, and several rescue air services worked together to achieve a great result", said Ms Brickles.
Ms Brickles also said that the rescue highlighted the importance of boaties carrying reliable communications equipment, such as marine VHF radios, emergency beacons and flares.
For further information contact:
RCCNZ Media Line
Phone 04 499 7318