Two people have been rescued from rough waters after being found clinging to their kayak approximately 5.7 kilometres off Stanmore Bay Beach. The incident occurred on a Saturday afternoon after the pair failed to arrive at their intended destination of Manly Beach.
Emergency Search and Rescue Operation
The group had originally set off from Mahurangi. Concerns grew as sea conditions deteriorated, characterized by rough seas and winds ranging between 15 and 20 knots, prompting a member of the group to contact the police.
Police Coastal Master Senior Constable Trevor Proctor stated that a search was initiated immediately. This operation included tasking the Police Eagle helicopter to scour the coastal area between Mahurangi, and Manly.
Due to the fact that the missing individuals were not responding to phone calls or text messages, authorities utilized a mobile phone locate to uncover them. Senior Constable Proctor noted that they managed to locate the kayakers by polling their phone.
Critical Safety Factors
Upon discovery, the pair were found in the water holding onto their kayak. Due to the rough sea conditions, they were unable to climb back into the craft.
Both individuals were wearing lifejackets, a factor that contributed to the positive outcome. The Coastguard subsequently retrieved the pair, and no injuries were reported.
Guidelines for Water Safety
Senior Constable Proctor emphasized that while the outcome was positive, the event highlights the necessity of carrying more than one form of communication when on the water.
He advised those relying on mobile phones to store their devices in a waterproof case or bag. According to Proctor, these simple precautions can produce a critical difference during an emergency.
In the future, maritime safety briefings may place a higher emphasis on the leverage of waterproof communication housing to prevent device failure during capsizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where were the kayakers traveling from and to?
The group had set off from Mahurangi with the intention of paddling to Manly Beach.
What were the weather conditions during the incident?
The area experienced rough seas and winds of 15-20 knots.
How were the two people eventually located?
The Police Eagle helicopter located them after police polled their mobile phone because they were not answering calls or texts.
What safety precautions do you prioritize when heading out on the water?
