A man who spent the night surrounded by water after becoming trapped on rocks following an afternoon of fishing is today thanking his lucky stars, as well as emergency services.
At about 7.45pm last night, the man’s friend raised the alarm after he had set off with his rod and nothing else towards Te Anina Point but failed to return.
Northland Police Search and Rescue Team Leader, Senior Constable Sam Davidson says the pair had arrived at Tauranga Bay about 2pm.
“It appears the man has crossed at low tide to catch dinner off some nearby rocks while the friend has decided to wait in the car.
“She has then fallen asleep and woken to find it dark and her friend still not back.”
Senior Constable Davidson says the informant went out to search for him but was unable to see or hear him and immediately called Police.
“Information was also passed on to say the male had no life jacket with him and no phone.”
He says a response plan was put in motion and a short time later Northern Rescue, Coastguard, Land Search and Rescue and Police Search and Rescue were on their way.
“Northern Rescue arrived quickly but after searching the area extensively and not picking up a heat source they were stood down to refuel.
“Coastguard were also nearby searching, but it was a sound signal which alerted the rescue team on land to the man’s location, on a cluster of rocks between Tauranga Bay and Marble Bay.”
Senior Constable Davidson says the tide was still too high so the crew waited until they could get across safely, providing the man with warm clothing and escorting him back to safety.
“He was cold and wet but otherwise well.
“And although he didn’t have a phone or a floatation device with him, he definitely made the right call to stay where he was until the tide dropped – it made the search easier for us and for his own safety.”
He says the rescue serves as yet another reminder for people heading out on the water, or off the rocks, to make sure they are prepared.
“Check the marine weather, make sure to always wear a lifejacket, take two waterproof ways to call for help and tell someone where you’re going.”
If you do get into trouble, please call 111 as soon as possible, as this will enable an emergency response at the earliest opportunity.
