Tragic Boating Incident: Three Deceased, Two Missing, Search Ongoing

Three people have been confirmed deceased in a tragic boating incident, with five others rescued and taken to Kaitaia Hospital in stable condition before being discharged. The search and rescue operation, involving multiple agencies, is ongoing for the two people still unaccounted for. The HMNZS Taupo is coordinating the maritime search, with helicopters and vessels scouring the area and ground crews searching along the shoreline. The weather conditions have improved, aiding in the search efforts.

The emergency began when an EPIRB was activated by a vessel on Sunday evening, leading to the rescue of five individuals before the vessel sank. Two bodies were found in the water and recovered by a rescue helicopter, while a third was retrieved by a assisting vessel. The operation remains active as authorities continue to search for the missing individuals, with a focus on providing support to the affected families. The cooperation between agencies and the favorable weather conditions are aiding in the search and rescue efforts.

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