Yacht sinks in Cass Bay during storm while dog is rescued

• A dog was rescued when a yacht sank during a storm in Cass Bay.
• Environment Canterbury reported no significant oil or fluid loss from the yacht.
• Debris will be collected by Environment Canterbury staff; public advised not to remove it.

A dog survived a sinking yacht in wild weather overnight.

The 12.5m yacht sank on its moorings in Cass Bay, Whakaraupō, during the storm that lashed Canterbury.

A blue heeler dog called Buddy was onboard and has been recovered safely and returned to its owner, Environment Canterbury (ECan) said.

A dog was rescued after a yacht sank at Cass Bay, Canterbury overnight. Photo / George Heard

ECan says there is 1000 litres of diesel contained in tanks on board, along with about 40 litres of lube and hydraulic fluid. No significant loss of oil or fluid has been observed.

Debris has been seen in the surrounding bays and will be collected by ECan staff today where possible.

“If members of the public do find debris, please do not touch it, and instead call 0800 765 588 to report any sightings,” ECan said.

A dog was rescued after a yacht sank at Cass Bay, Canterbury. Photo / George Heard

The storm blew through Lyttelton last night, with MetService recording nearly 100mm of rain falling around Banks Peninsula in just over 12 hours. There was surface flooding in some areas.

Wind gusts also reached 100km/h.

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