Marine rescue off Napier coast: One person dies after medical event

Coastguard Hawke's Bay's 'Celia Knowles' rescue boat was involved in a mission off the Napier coast on Wednesday morning. Photo / Coastguard NZ

One person has died after being taken off a boat for medical reasons off the Hawke’s Bay coast on Thursday morning.

Coastguard Hawke’s Bay, the Hawke’s Bay Rescue Helicopter, ambulance service Hato Hone St John, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand were all involved in the alert, and were seen in the area of the reserve at Te Karaka (Perfume Point).

Coastguard New Zealand said a report was received at 9.51am, relating to a medical event on a recreational fishing boat near Cape Kidnappers.

“Within 15 minutes, four Coastguard Hawke’s Bay volunteers were out on the water responding to the urgent call, and upon arrival provided immediate medical assistance to the individual,” a spokesperson said.

The patient was transported back to shore where rescue helicopter paramedics were waiting to continue care.

Police were told a person had possibly had a medical event on a small boat and was being brought to shore. The person was confirmed dead about 11am.