“With the water temperature sitting at around 16 degrees, one member of the Eagle crew entered the water and stayed with the group for about five minutes while the police maritime unit and Coastguard made their way to the scene.
“It appears all three were ill-prepared. Two kayakers were wearing poorly fitted lifejackets, while another put one on after being instructed to by Eagle.
“Thanks to a solid co-ordinated response from Eagle, the maritime unit and Coastguard, all three kayakers made it safely back to shore, with one suffering with hypothermia.”
The trio capsized offshore from Maraetai Coast Rd. Photo / Google Maps
Hato Hone St John confirmed it was sent to a “water-related” incident near Maraetai at 12.50pm.
“Three people were rescued by a police maritime unit and have been transported by ambulance to hospital.”
A worker at Maraetai Wharf Cafe told the Herald they saw two ambulances and two police cars race past them, while the helicopter hovered above the water alongside a Coastguard boat and a police boat.
The operators of Foreshore Indian and European Restaurant also said they saw the Eagle.
Constable Hall said it served as a timely reminder that conditions on the water could change quickly and even a short time in cold water could be dangerous.
“If you’re heading out on the water, wear a properly fitted lifejacket, check the weather and marine conditions, and let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.”