Missing Boat Found

RESCUE COORDINATION CENTRE NEW ZEALAND MEDIA RELEASE

TUESDAY DECEMBER 30, 2008, 2.00PM

The runabout missing in the Bay of Plenty has been located by a rescue helicopter approximately five kilometres to the west of Motiti Island and 15 kilometres north of Tauranga.

It appears that all five people on board are safe and well. The vessel, with two adults and three children on board, was reported overdue yesterday morning from a snorkeling trip trip to Motunau Island.

Four people have been lifted on board the Phillips Rescue helicopter and taken to Tauranga airport to be reunited with their families.

The owner has elected to stay on board his boat and is being towed into Tauranga by a Coastguard vessel.

Rescue Coordination Centre Mission Controller, Tracy Brickles, said that the rescue team was delighted with the successful outcome and wished to thank all those who were involved, particularly the large number of volunteers who had taken part in the search.

"Police, Coastguard, Surf Lifesaving, the Airforce, and several rescue air services worked together to achieve a great result", said Ms Brickles.

Ms Brickles also said that the rescue highlighted the importance of boaties carrying reliable communications equipment, such as marine VHF radios, emergency beacons and flares.

ENDS

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