Coastguard volunteers responded to the incident in March after being alerted that five people were in the water. Photo / Coastguard NZ
Coastguard volunteers responded to the incident in March after being alerted that five people were in the water. Photo / Coastguard NZ
A boatie who ended up clutching bags and a cushion for an hour after his vessel sank when a good Samaritan act went horribly wrong says he has learned a lesson that he is extremely lucky to have survived.
The Coastguard is using a Lake Rotoiti rescue as a lessonfor Kiwis on the water this festive season, warning boaties to plan carefully and call for help when in doubt.
In March this year, Coastguard Rotorua Lakes responded to a double sinking that left five people in the waters of Wharetata Bay without lifejackets.
Experienced sailor Ian and his brother were attempting to help tow the occupants of a waterlogged vessel when their boat also began to sink, plunging both men into the icy lake.
“It happened in seconds. You won’t have time to think; you won’t have time to grab anything. The only thing that will save you is wearing a lifejacket.”
Without the crucial life preservers, the brothers used two bags and a seat cushion to stay above the water as they awaited rescue.
Coastguard volunteers pulled the two out of the lake more than an hour later after the other three people managed to swim to shore.
“We’ve learned a lesson, and I have to say it was a lesson we were extremely lucky to survive”, Ian said, reflecting that the accident had changed his life forever.
The Lake Rotoiti incident saw Coastguard rescue the two men after an hour-long wait in the waters. Photo / Coastguard NZ
Coastguard Rotorua Lakes volunteer Jonathan Findon said Ian’s experience was a good reminder of how a seemingly simple save can go awry.
“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.
“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.”
Findon urged Kiwis to wear lifejackets while boating this summer, and reminded people to call 111 and ask for Police, or use VHF Channel 16, in an emergency.
Volunteers responded to 1269 incidents on the water last summer, seeing a 26% rise in life-threatening situations.
“Summer is a time to make fun, happy memories – boating, jet skiing, kayaking - but sadly, too many people aren’t making it home after a day on the water,” Coastguard CEO Carl McOnie said.
“By always wearing a lifejacket, carrying two forms of waterproof communication, and making a trip report - especially when crossing a bar - you give our volunteers the best chance to reach you quickly and bring you home safely.”
