Emergency services rescue seven people from Waiheke Island boat fire

Police removed seven people from the vessel, and took them back to be assessed by St John.

Seven people were rescued after their boat caught fire off Waiheke Island, this afternoon.

A Fenz spokesperson said they received a call just after 5:30pm about a vessel on fire 500m from Enclosure Bay, Waiheke Island.

“The fire service sent crews on Coastguard and Police boats to assist.”

“They currently have fire crews, dampening down hot spots and making sure the fire is extinguished.”

Seven people were rescued from a dinghy near the boat.

The occupants were transported back to Matiatia Wharf where they were checked over by St John, after being cleared they were transported back to Pine Harbour Marina.

A Police spokesperson said they were notified at 5:50pm that the boat was on fire.

“All seven occupants were safely removed from the boat by Deodar, the Police Maritime Unit.”

*This story has clarified the location of the boat after more information was provided by Police