Update on Iron Maiden search
Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) continue to coordinate a search and rescue operation launched off Cape
Reinga last night.
At approximately 4:30am searchers recovered the body of one of the missing crew members.
At approximately 7:30am the RNZAF Orion located the Iron Maiden’s life raft.
The NIWA vessel Tangaroa was asked to retrieve the life raft and at about 8:00am confirmed that the life raft was empty.
2 fishing vessels, the Brac and the Glory Days continue are still helping out in the search area.
The RNZAF Orion is searching a new area based on current information.
A land SAR team is sweeping the coastline at Ninety-Mile Beach.
A helicopter is on stand by at Te Paki Station, Cape Reinga, to assist the search if required.
Current weather conditions in the area are cloudy with a SW wind gusting to 40 knots and a heavy swell.
An update will be sent when further information comes to hand.