![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/4KZM8QR_IMG_5113_JPG.jpeg\")
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\nKai\u0101rahi ferry. File photo.
\nPhoto: Supplied \/ Regan Ingley\n<\/p>\n
A search is underway for a person that went overboard from an Interislander ferry on the Cook Strait overnight.<\/p>\n
A KiwiRail spokesperson said the incident happened from its Kai\u0101rahi ferry.<\/p>\n
Do you know more? Email us at iwitness@rnz.co.nz<\/p>\n
Police said they were alerted to the incident about 2.20am on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
Ten volunteers from Coastguard Wellington were searching the area aboard rescue vessels Reremoana and Spirit of Wellington.<\/p>\n
Coastguard said it was supporting police and Rescue Coordination Centre NZ who were leading the search operation.<\/p>\n
On Flight Radar, two rescue helicopters were seen flying in a grid-like pattern in the area.<\/p>\n
GCH Aviation has confirmed its Nelson\/Marlborough rescue helicopter was one of those assisting with the search.<\/p>\n
The Maritime Union said crew on board Interislander’s Kai\u0101rahi were shaken by the incident.<\/p>\n
The union’s Wellington branch secretary, Fiona Mansell, said the union had been in contact with its members on board to ensure their wellbeing was being prioritised.<\/p>\n
“Our crew members are understandably shaken by the night’s events. The union has requested and is ensuring support is available to the crew, with a focus on those who had direct interaction with the passenger.”<\/p>\n
She said the union was currently awaiting further information as search and rescue efforts continue,<\/p>\n
“This is a shocking event, and our thoughts are first and foremost with the family and loved ones of the individual involved.”<\/p>\n
Police said while they are trying to locate the person, they’re are not seeking anyone else in relation to this matter.<\/p>\n