Strong gusts of wind and choppy water caught two tourists by surprise, causing their kayak to capsize on Lake Rotorua yesterday.
Karel, 31, and Natalija, 29, from Estonia were in a two-person kayak heading towards Mokoia Island from Koutu when choppy waves caused them to turn back to shore. While they were turning they capsized, they said.
"The waves got bigger and we thought now was time to go back," Karel said.
"We turned around so the wind was around the side of the kayak and we turned over. She got out but my leg was caught, I eventually set it free and I got out," Karel said.
They were towed to shore in a dinghy by local residents who saw the duo as they got into difficulty.