Overboard – 09/26/2015 – 15:55 to

A member of the public reported that a grey dingy was floating 1km off Tirohanga Beach opposite Motu Challenge Rest Area.  Previously a person with a yellow jacket was on board but had disappeared.  Sea conditions were calm with good visibility, no swell and 12-19kt breeze from SE.  Opotiki Coastguard (Opac Rescue) responded.  At 1633hr Police also requested assistance from Whakatane Rescue to help search for the lost boatee. However, before Whakatane Rescue was on the water it was stood down at 1644hr because Opac Rescue had found the boatee in the water.  The person was transferred to an Ambulance and transported to hospital for treatment.