Kiwi ‘medically evacuated’ to NZ run over by boat snorkelling in Fiji

The blue waters of Fiji are an attraction to many divers, snorkellers and kayakers. Photo / Supplied

A New Zealander on a cruise holiday has been evacuated home from Fiji after surviving being run over by another boat while snorkeling in the Dravuni waters, Kadavu Group.

Kadavu is a Fijian island known for the Great Astrolabe Reef, the world’s fourth-longest barrier reef that brings thousands of divers, surfers and kayakers to its waters.

The Kiwi was on a cruise holiday on board the P&O Pacific Explorer and the Herald understands he was struck by a propellor of a dinghy that was transporting people for rides while he was snorkelling.

A P&O Cruises Australia spokesman said the person was injured while swimming off Dravuni Island on Fiji on Saturday.

He was rushed to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital after sustaining the injuries.

“P&O is offering support and care to the guest’s family,” the spokesman said.

“The safety of our guests is of utmost importance to P&O and we are working with Fiji authorities to determine the circumstances of this incident.”

Fiji police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro told the Herald the victim was “medically evacuated to New Zealand by Medevac” at 8pm on Sunday.

Police said the man was a passenger on board a cruise liner that visited Kadavu and was airlifted to the CWM Hospital after being injured.

Investigations into how the accident happened are ongoing.

The New Zealand High Commission in Fiji said it was aware of the reports.

However, for privacy reasons, it would not provide further comments or information.