Eagle swoops in after kayakers capsize

As stated by: Senior Constable, Hayden Hall, Auckland Maritime Unit.

Three kayakers are safely back on dry land after a chilly afternoon on the water ended with an unexpected rescue from the Police Eagle helicopter crew.

Police were first made aware of the trio capsizing at approximately 12.50pm off Maraetai Coast Road.

Eagle was quickly overhead and located the kayakers in the water.

With the water temperature sitting at around 16 degrees, one member of the Eagle crew entered the water and stayed with the group for approximately five minutes while the Police Maritime Unit and Coastguard made their way to the scene.

It appears all three were ill-prepared. Two kayakers were wearing poorly fitted lifejackets, while another put one on after being instructed to by Eagle.

Thanks to a solid coordinated response from Eagle, the Maritime Unit and Coastguard, all three kayakers made it safely back to shore, with one suffering with hypothermia.

The kayakers were very lucky given the windy and cold conditions.

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.

If you’re heading out on the water, wear a properly fitted lifejacket, check the weather and marine conditions, and let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.