Rescue operation in Wellington Harbour

On Monday 4th January 2010 at about 8:12 pm Police received information of a yacht in Evans Bay near Point Halswell was sinking. The yacht was reported to be an orange trailer sailor with white sail.

It was reported by a member of public that the three persons onboard were now in the water and the boat was drifting north toward Wellington harbour.

A Police inflatable boat, Police shore units, Airport Marine Rescue and Wellington Volunteer Coastguard were all dispatched to the incident. An "all ships" broadcast was done by Wellington Maritime Radio for any vessels in the area to assist.

Police shore units and members of public had observations on the yacht and persons in the water and were giving Police communications updates on the situation.

At about 8:25 pm three adults and a baby were plucked from the water by the yacht "Marishka" that was returning to Evans Bay.

Police came alongside this yacht and transferred the baby and mother to their vessel before transporting them to Evans Bay marina for medical attention by ambulance. The other two adults were returned to Evans Bay on the yacht and also transferred to Wellington hospital for treatment of hypothermia.

Wellington Volunteer Coastguard recovered the sunken yacht and towed it into Evans Bay boat ramp.

All occupants of the yacht are believed to be in a stable condition in Wellington Hospital.