Coastguard and Police Helicopter Rescue Skipper from Manukau Harbour

A dramatic rescue operation unfolded at Manukau Harbour on January 21, 2024, when two boats required assistance due to an emergency involving a flat battery and a tangled skipper. The incident began when one vessel, incapacitated by a dead battery, called for help. As another boat approached to assist, the skipper became ensnared in rope while in the water, leading to urgent action from local authorities.

Responding to the situation, two Coastguard vessels from the Waiuku and Papakura branches were deployed. Additionally, the Police Eagle helicopter provided aerial support to assess the situation from above. The quick response was crucial, as the boats were drifting dangerously close to a sandbar at the harbour mouth.

The man overboard sustained serious injuries, including hypothermia and significant leg injuries from the entangled rope. A crew member aboard the assisting vessel also suffered a hand injury during the rescue effort. According to the Coastguard, this incident serves as a “timely reminder that things on the water can change in an instant.”

The emergency call was issued around midday, indicating that the broken-down boat was located approximately half a nautical mile from Cornwallis Wharf. This quick response by the Coastguard and police underscores the importance of preparedness and safety on the water.

Local authorities continue to advise all boaters to ensure their vessels are properly maintained and equipped to avoid similar emergencies in the future. The community is grateful for the swift actions of the Coastguard and the police, which undoubtedly prevented further injury during this precarious situation.