Six people were rescued from rocks near the Whakatāne bar on [date not verified] after their boat capsized while attempting to cross the bar. The Coastguard praised the “swift actions” of a member of the public who raised the alarm, particularly in low-light conditions.
The rescue operation involved multiple agencies, including the Coastguard and local emergency services. All six individuals were safely brought ashore, and no serious injuries were reported.
Coastguard officials reminded boaties to log a bar crossing report before setting sail and to ensure they close it on landing. They also emphasized the importance of wearing life jackets and checking weather conditions before crossing bars.
