Gearbox – 08/07/2016 – 9:26 to 11:20

At 0926hr a 12m commercial fishing boat with 3 POB reported that it had gearbox problems and required a tow back to Whakatane. Sea conditions were calm with a 15kt SSW wind. The boat was working neat the Raurimu Islands. At 0929hr Whakatane Rescue was called out and was launched at 0952hr. The fishing boat reported that it had made temporary repairs and was making way at reduced speed.  Whakatane Rescue stood-by outside the bar to privide assistance if needed. At 1050hr the boat reported that it was passing the golf course. At 1115hr Whakatane Rescue followed the boat across the bar and both boats were safely back in the river at 1119hr.