A dog missing since a yacht capsized off the coast of Whananaki four days ago has been found safe. Rimu, a curly-coated retriever, washed ashore at Cabbage Tree Bay in Matapouri while still wearing her life jacket.
Rescue and Reunion
The yacht encountered trouble around 5:10 pm on December 30, reportedly after striking Elizabeth Reef. A civilian in a small runabout boat undertook a rescue, bringing the skipper to safety before emergency services arrived. Witnesses described the civilian’s actions as heroic.
Police confirmed a dog was onboard the vessel and remained missing after the skipper received medical assessment. Four days later, on Saturday, Rimu was spotted by spearfishers emerging from bushes at Cabbage Tree Bay.
Georgia Farmer, who was at the bay with her children, assisted in securing the frightened dog. “I had my kid’s lunch box with me so I was able to get close to her and give her the food out of it and fill it with water. The spearos gave her some fish roe from the fish they caught,” Farmer told 1News. She was eventually able to safely secure Rimu with a rope.
Farmer posted about the found dog on social media, leading to a swift reunion with the owner at Whale Bay car park. According to Farmer, the owner “was so happy to see her” and Rimu “couldn’t contain her excitement.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the yacht capsize?
The yacht capsized around 5:10 pm on December 30.
Where was Rimu found?
Rimu was found at Cabbage Tree Bay in Matapouri, four days after the yacht capsized.
Who helped secure Rimu after she was found?
Georgia Farmer, along with a group of spearfishers, helped secure Rimu by offering her food and water and eventually clipping her to a rope.
What role do you think luck and quick thinking played in this positive outcome?
