Please select your home edition
Edition
Zhik 2024 December

Search and rescue operation underway - request for sightings of yacht east of Coromandel

by Maritime New Zealand 17 Feb 2021 21:43 AEDT 17 February 2021
Volvo Ocean Race Leg 7 from Auckland to Itajai, day 02 on board Vestas 11th Hour. Tom Johnson, stacking with Coromandel in the background © Jeremie Lecaudey / Volvo Ocean Race

A major search and rescue operation is underway after a mayday call was received from a sinking yacht earlier this evening.

A distress call was received via maritime radio at about 6.30pm tonight giving the yacht’s location as near Waiheke.

An initial search of the area failed to locate the yacht and search and rescue agencies believe the yacht may have provided an incorrect location.

Rescue Coordination Centre NZ’s Search and Rescue Officer Tracy Brickles said based on the location of the radio site which received the call and the location of a nearby cargo vessel the yacht was trying to contact, it was now believed that the yacht was potentially east of the Coromandel.

“Two rescue helicopters, one Coastguard boat and the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Te Kaha are searching both the original position provided, as well as the coast off Pauanui in the Coromandel.

“We understand that two people are on board the yacht but we have no further information about the yacht, or what may have caused it to take on water, at this time.

“We have serious concerns for the safety of those on board. We urge anyone with any information or possible sightings to contact Police immediately by calling 111.”

Related Articles

Rolex Fastnet Race IRC Three preview
This has produced the overall winner of two of the last six editions IRC Three may consist of smaller, slower and in some cases older boats than those that will garner headlines in the first couple of days of the Rolex Fastnet Race. Posted today at 4:12 pm
Zhik Nordic Youth Sailing Championship preview
This year's regatta will be the largest of its kind ever hosted in Tallinn Tallinna Yacht Club brings one of the biggest sports events of the summer to Haven Kakumäe - 300 young sailors expected at the Zhik Nordic Youth Sailing Championship, plus just as many supporters on shore! Posted today at 3:00 pm
18th Puig Vela Clàssica Barcelona day 1
Opening victories and nautical splendor This week, Barcelona once again takes center stage in the world of classic sailing as the 18th edition of the Puig Vela Clàssica gets under way. The opening day delivered ideal conditions for a spectacular display on the water. Posted today at 12:28 pm
Rolex Fastnet Race: IRC Two Preview
With 73 entries in IRC Two, the Rolex Fastnet Race is set to deliver a striking display. Could two new JPK 1050s upset the apple cart in IRC Two? Jean-Pierre Kelbert has a habit of breaking the mould in IRC racing, and his new 34-footer may well be a game changer in this competitive division with 73 entries. Posted today at 10:36 am
The Long Laser Lunch – a reunion to remember
Sailors from every state reunited over lunch like it was just another regatta weekend. Last month 93 Laser sailors from across the country gathered at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club for what became a truly unforgettable reunion. Posted today at 10:19 am
Offshore at 16
Will Farnell, the ORCV's Youth Sailor of the Year 2025 The ORCV is proud to announce Will Farnell as the recipient of the 2025 Youth Sailor of the Year award—a young sailor whose love for the sea runs generations deep and whose commitment to the sport has already made waves far beyond his years. Posted today at 8:52 am
Seldén Rodkicker 50 - manual rigid vang
Specifically sized for yachts between 50 and 55 feet A Rodkicker rigid vang is designed to enhance sail handling during reefing and allows for greater sail trim control. Posted today at 8:00 am
WASZP Games 2025: Talent & fun descend on Weymouth
Poised to be the largest and most competitive in the class's history The 2025 International WASZP Games, set to take place from July 19–25 at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, are poised to be the largest and most competitive in the class's history. Posted today at 7:23 am
Queensland Yachting Survey 2025 Feedback
The results are in, gathering valuable insights directly from the sailing community Following this year's Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, a group of passionate and experienced individuals from the sailing community gathered to discuss the current state of yachting in Queensland. Posted today at 5:18 am
Transpac 2025 Update: Moon River Tonight!
The magic of offshore racing in the 2025 Transpac A vast ocean separates Los Angeles, California, from Honolulu, Hawaii, but the boats racing in this year's Transpac have now crossed the halfway mark. Race leaders are in the tradewinds and making their approach to the Aloha State. Posted today at 12:26 am
Sea Sure 2025Hyde Sails 2024 - One DesignCyclops Marine 2023 November - FOOTER