Key Takeaways:
- Three fishermen were rescued after their boat sank in the Manukau Harbour
- The fishermen were prepared and did everything right, including having waterproof communication devices and wearing life jackets
- A search and rescue operation was launched, involving the Police Eagle helicopter and the Auckland Airport Crash Fire Hovercraft
- The fishermen were found and safely taken aboard the rescue hovercraft around 1:30am
- The group’s preparedness and quick thinking helped their own rescue
Introduction to the Incident
The Manukau Harbour was the scene of a dramatic rescue operation last night, as three fishermen were rescued after their boat began taking on water. The trio had set off from the Māngere Bridge boat ramp and were approximately 2km away from Puketutu Island when their boat sank. The group quickly called the police, but were unsure of their exact location, prompting a search and rescue operation to be launched. The police spokesperson confirmed that the operation involved the Police Eagle helicopter and the Auckland Airport Crash Fire Hovercraft, which were deployed to locate and rescue the stranded fishermen.
The Rescue Operation
The search and rescue operation was launched shortly after the fishermen’s call, with the Police Eagle helicopter and the Auckland Airport Crash Fire Hovercraft working together to locate the group. The Eagle helicopter was able to quickly locate the fishermen, and they were subsequently taken aboard the rescue hovercraft around 1:30am. The rescue operation was a success, and the fishermen were safely brought back to shore. The police spokesperson praised the efforts of the rescue teams, saying that their quick response and professionalism had helped to ensure a positive outcome.
The Fishermen’s Preparation and Response
Sergeant Jesse Jenden from the Auckland Police Maritime Unit praised the fishermen for their preparedness and quick thinking, saying that they had "done everything right" in the lead-up to and during the rescue operation. The group had taken the necessary precautions, including having waterproof communication devices and wearing life jackets, which had helped to ensure their safety. Additionally, they had listened to the instructions from the rescuers and had even used chilly bins as extra flotation devices, which had helped to keep them afloat until help arrived. Jenden emphasized the importance of being prepared when heading out on the water, saying that "anything can happen and you really need to be prepared for that".
The Aftermath of the Rescue
The family of the fishermen reported that they were in good spirits once they were back on shore, relieved that the ordeal was over and that their loved ones were safe. The successful rescue operation was a testament to the professionalism and expertise of the rescue teams, as well as the preparedness and quick thinking of the fishermen themselves. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared and taking necessary precautions when engaging in water-based activities, and the value of having the right equipment and knowledge in case of an emergency.
Conclusion and Reflection
The rescue of the three fishermen in the Manukau Harbour is a positive outcome that highlights the importance of preparedness and quick thinking in emergency situations. The incident also demonstrates the value of having the right equipment and knowledge, as well as the professionalism and expertise of rescue teams. As Sergeant Jenden noted, "anything can happen" when heading out on the water, and it is crucial to be prepared for any eventuality. By taking the necessary precautions and being aware of the potential risks, individuals can help to ensure their safety and the safety of others, and reduce the risk of accidents and emergencies.
