Rotorua, 14 March, 2025 –Around 12:30pm today, Coastguard’s Operations Centre was alerted by Police to an emergency on Lake Rotoiti, Bay of Plenty, where five people were reported to be in the water without lifejackets after two boats sank near Wharetata Bay.
A broken-down boat carrying three people began taking on water, prompting a passing vessel with two others aboard to attempt a tow. Despite their best efforts, both boats ultimately sank, leaving all five individuals in the water. While three managed to swim to shore, two remained in the lake for nearly an hour, clutching onto a seat cushion and a bag from one of the boats to help them stay afloat as they waited for help. They were eventually rescued by another vessel responding to Coastguard’s all-stations mayday call for assistance.
Seven volunteers from Coastguard Rotorua Lakes arrived on the scene around 1:20pm, transferring the two rescued individuals back to shore where Police and Hato Hone St John were waiting. Thankfully, all five people survived the ordeal.
Coastguard Rotorua Lakes volunteer Jonathan Findon said the group was incredibly fortunate. “They were lucky to be alive – this is a classic case of good intentions going wrong. The boaties who attempted the tow did their best to help, but unfortunately, it ended with both vessels at the bottom of the lake,” said Jonathan. “This is exactly where a Coastguard membership proves its worth. Instead of relying on another passing boatie, members get 24/7 free non-urgent assistance, avoiding situations like this.”
Following the rescue, Coastguard volunteers returned to the scene and used sonar technology to locate the sunken boats, reporting their position to the Harbourmaster for recovery.
This incident highlights the importance of carrying an emergency communications device. “A VHF radio, EPIRB, PLB, or a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof bag can make all the difference in situations like this,” Jonathan added. “It’s also a stark reminder of how vital it is to always wear a lifejacket – three were fortunate to make it back to shore, while the other two had to cling to floating items from the boats to stay afloat. It could have ended very differently.”
Coastguard urges all boaties to be prepared, as the unexpected can happen in an instant – always wear a lifejacket and carry at least two forms of waterproof communication.
ENDS
