Eight rescued from sinking yacht

Picton Harbour. Photo / Supplied

Eight people have been rescued from a sinking yacht in Picton Harbour this afternoon.

Wellington ambulance communications centre spokesman Chris Matthews told NZPA emergency services were alerted to the sinking about 2.20pm.

Eight people were rescued, one with serious injuries and seven with moderate injuries.

The two most seriously injured - with a broken leg and broken ankle respectively - were being airlifted to Wellington Hospital by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. The rest were taken to Blenheim's Wairau Hospital by ambulance.

Police were at the scene.

- NZPA