Kayakers found 'halfway to drowning'

Two kayakers were found "halfway to drowning" after they fell out of their kayaks at a Wellington beach this afternoon.

A member of the public told police they had seen two kayaks washed up on the beach at Island Bay, with one of the kayaks still floating, about 3.15pm.

A police boat on the harbour at the time arrived at the bay about 10 minutes later. Maritime search and rescue staff were also sent to the scene.

The two kayakers were found onshore.

"They sucked in lot of water. They obviously fell out of their kayaks and were halfway to drowning," a police spokesman said.

The kayakers required medical attention and were taken to Wellington Hospital.

- NZPA