Late night rescue ends well

A dramatic late-night rescue recently has highlighted the importance of Kawau Coastguard being available 24/7, and the strength of coordination between police, fellow Coastguard units and Hato Hone St John.

Just after 9pm on September 15, Kawau Rescue was dispatched to an urgent callout following reports of a missing diver at Goat Island Marine Reserve. The diver, who had been separated from his group, failed to make it back to shore with the others. His companions raised the alarm as soon as they returned to land.

Kawau Rescue skipper Thelma Wilson reported that while the initial situation was concerning, an update soon came through that the Police Eagle helicopter had located the diver north of the island. He was spotted on the surface, but struggling to make headway.

“With a light sou’wester behind us, we made excellent time to the scene,” Wilson said. “The Eagle remained overhead, and the diver also used his torch to guide us in. We boarded him and checked him for hypothermia and exhaustion.

“Thanks to good equipment and a warm wetsuit, he was in remarkably good shape, given how long he’d been in the water.”

The Coastguard’s Operations team liaised closely with police and St John throughout the incident, confirming that an ambulance was not required. The diver was safely returned to his relieved friends waiting at Leigh Wharf.

The entire operation, from callout to returning the man to shore, took just one hour and 45 minutes. Hibiscus Rescue 1 from Whangaparāoa was also mobilised in case further support was needed.

The rescue boat and crew eventually returned to Sandspit around midnight, where “Tractor Al” was waiting to haul the vessel out and help with cleanup.

Wilson praised the teamwork involved.

“It was a great result,” she said.

Kawau Coastguard is reminding the community that they are always looking for new volunteers. Crew members need to be reasonably fit, live within 20 minutes of Sandspit, and enjoy working as part of a team. The unit also welcomes volunteers who can assist with fundraising and events such as the annual Kawau Coastguard golf day.

Local businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Paul on 027 233 2655 or paulandpat@xtra.co.nz.