Two people have been winched to safety after their boat capsized on Christmas Day in southern Fiordland.
Coastguard’s operations centre was alerted after a personal locator beacon was activated near the mouth of Big River at 1.51pm. Volunteers from Coastguard Riverton responded immediately.
A rescue helicopter from Te Anau located an overturned 4-metre aluminium boat with two people clinging to its upturned hull at around 3.16pm.
“The helicopter crew successfully winched the individuals to safety, while Coastguard Riverton watched on and recovered the boat,” a spokesperson said.
Coastguard’s operations centre was alerted after a personal locator beacon was activated near the mouth of Big River at 1.51pm. (Supplied: Coastguard) (Source: Supplied)
Coastguard reminded boaties of the importance of carrying a register personal locator beacon and wearing lifejackets when on the water.
“This rescue is a testament to the commitment of Coastguard volunteers from the Operations Centre and Riverton, who give their time – even on Christmas Day – to ensure the safety of others.”