When a member of the public reported a small dinghy possibly sinking off Scott’s Landing on Monday evening, Coastguard units from Cowell, Auckland and Hibiscus were quickly scrambled.
Skipper Paul and his Kawau crew launched within minutes, joined by Trillion Alpha from Auckland and Hibiscus II from the Hibiscus Coast. As the light faded over Mahurangi Harbour, the three vessels coordinated a joint response to the distress report.
“It was getting to twilight, and if required, a search would be far more efficient with the three boats,” Skipper Paul said.
On arrival, rescuers discovered that the 3-metre dinghy was not sinking after all; it was suffering from engine problems. In a twist of luck and local goodwill, a nearby kayaker had already towed the disabled vessel safely to shore.
Both occupants were wearing lifejackets, a detail the Coastguard praised as crucial had the situation worsened. Hibiscus II’s amphibious Sealegs capability allowed its crew to drive onto the beach to check on those onboard before rejoining the other responders on the water.
“It was certainly pleasant to meet up with our neighbouring crews under more social circumstances with our customers safely on shore,” said Paul.
The Kawau team extended thanks to their volunteers Thelma, Rob and Mark.
While this callout ended safely, it’s a reminder of how fast conditions can change and how vital it is to log a trip report (no matter the size of your boat), check engines before launch, and wear lifejackets on every outing.
