A fisher is lucky to be alive after his boat caught fire on Lake Taupō last night, sparking a major rescue operation and prompting fresh safety warnings.
Emergency services were alerted around 6.45pm yesterday after residents in Kinloch reported seeing a boat ablaze on the lake.
Fire and Emergency NZ crews arrived to find the vessel fully engulfed, but its sole occupant was missing.
Police launched a marine search and rescue, deploying helicopters, Coastguard Lake Taupō and the Harbour Master. After more than an hour in the water without a lifejacket, the man was spotted by a helicopter crew about a kilometre from the wreckage.
A life ring was dropped before he was picked up by another boat and transferred to Coastguard’s Taupō Rescue vessel. He was taken back to Kinloch and treated for minor injuries.
Senior Constable Barry Shepherd said the outcome could have been tragic.
"Things can change in a heartbeat. It’s extremely important people are fully prepared when they enjoy water activities," he said.
Police urged boaties to wear lifejackets at all times, carry two forms of communication, and let someone know their plans. Solo trips required extra caution, Shepherd added.
Authorities also reminded lake users to follow the Lake Taupō Navigation Safety Bylaw 2020, warning breaches, such as underage drivers, speeding, and failing to wear lifejackets, would likely result in enforcement action.
Tuwharetoa Māori Trust Board chief executive Rakeipoho Taiaroa praised emergency responders and said the iwi was thankful the man was found in time.
"Lake Taupō is a very dynamic environment and conditions can change quickly," Taiaroa said.
"It’s better to be prepared and safe than sorry."
Police said anyone in trouble on the water should call 111 immediately.
SHARE ME