People rescued from burning charter vessel

Westhaven marina. Photo / Chris Gorman

Twenty-five people were rescued from a charter vessel which appeared to be on fire near Auckland's Westhaven Marina this afternoon.

Coastguard duty officer Mark Leevers said the vessel's skipper radioed for help about 3.30pm after a suspected engine fire.

Two Coastguard vessels, several other boats and the fire service responded within minutes.

Passengers were removed from the boat by another charter vessel.

No fire was found on the boat and it was later cleared for use, Mr Leevers said.