Semi-submerged car found near Wellington

There were fears people were trapped in the vehicle, but no one was found inside once emergency services reached it. Photo / Supplied

A semi-submerged car has been found more than 50 metres off the coast near Wellington this morning.

Emergency services arrived at Motukaraka Point, on the Pauatahanui Coast north of Wellington, about 8am.

A member of the public was passing by and called 111 when they saw the sinking vehicle, Inspector Ken Climo said.

There were fears people were trapped in the vehicle, but no one was found inside once emergency services reached it.

Police officers waded out into the water before getting stuck in the mud and having to return to shore.

It appeared that it was a stolen vehicle that had been driven off the road, he said.
"We're have it towed and recovered and no doubt looking at the forensic side of it [now]," Mr Climo said.

The registration details had been taken and forensic investigations would be carried out after the vehicle was towed later today.

Fire Service spokesman Dave Meikle said a crew attended the incident but left when it was discovered the car was empty.

"We just went to have a look, just turned out to be an abandoned vehicle in the harbour and we left it with the police," he said.