Brothers rescued from water in Whangamata
Police state 2 brothers rescued tonight in Whangamata are an example of why people need to be prepared before taking to
the water. Local Police along with Whangmata Coastguard, Whangamata Surf Lifesaving Club and the Westpac Rescue
Helicopter all responded to assist in the rescue of two brothers ages 20 and 22 years old in the upper Whangamata
Harbour last night.
Shift Inspector Snr Sgt Dave LITTON states both brothers are extremely lucky to not be either hospitalised or seriously
hurt following tonight's ordeal.
"It's an example of how things can quickly go wrong without warning and demonstrates the need to make sure you are
equipt for the conditions, especially if taking to the water"
The ordeal unfolded with the two brothers taking a jetski out from Whangamata at about 2pm. Shortly after this the
jetski has taken on water and they have both ended up in the water before making it to land across the channel from the
Whangamata Township. Although warmly dressed they were both poorly prepared without wetsuits,life jackets or any sort of
communication, they have been stuck across Whangamata channel in an outgoing tide without being able to call for help.
On a winters night with daylight quickly failing, means things can quickly develop into a life threatening situation.
"These boys have been lucky in that someone walking near the harbour has eventually heard them call for help shortly
after 6pm. To there credit these men have also shown some kiwi initiative in lighting a fire to assist in keeping warm
as darkness has fallen".
Both boys were located by Whangamata Surf Lifesaving Club and bought back to Whangamata where they were both treated for
hypothermia.
Snr Sgt LITTON states that this is a reminder to anyone taking to the water to make sure you're prepared for any
eventuality. Making sure your vessel is up to the task and you have the right equipment to keep afloat and raise the
alarm if needed are the minimums for any boat user.
Police would like to thank the Whangamata Coastguard and Surf Lifesaving Club who have both responded very quickly to
help save these men. Both these organisations rely on volunteers who have once again shown their community spirit
assisting in the safe rescue of these men.
END