The Eastland Helicopter Rescue Trust were out on the rescue path by 9:20am, reporting that the Trust Tairāwhiti Eastland Rescue Helicopter had deployed after receiving an emergency call. SAR teams launched two Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRBs) to assist in reaching the boat, which had overturned less than 100 metres from the shore. By the time the helicopter arrived, all three occupants had managed to make their way to shore.
Upon arrival, the helicopter team winched a critical care flight paramedic down to assess the scene. The paramedic quickly evaluated the condition of the boaters, one of whom was unconscious. The helicopter then landed on Sponge Bay Beach while the paramedic and SAR team treated the patients. After initial treatment, the unconscious patient was stabilised and winched up to the helicopter along with the paramedic for further medical support.
St John Ambulance Service transported the patient, who was in stable condition, to Gisborne Hospital. According to a St John spokesperson, “One patient in a moderate condition is currently being airlifted to Gisborne Hospital. Two further patients, both in minor conditions, were assessed and treated at the scene, with no transport required.”
The SAR teams used IRBs to bring the other two individuals safely to Sponge Bay Beach. Both were reported to be in minor condition and were treated on site, with no need for additional medical transport.
The exact cause of the capsize remains unclear. The incident highlights the importance of coordinated rescue efforts between air and sea responders, whose quick actions helped ensure a safe outcome for the boaties involved.
