A 6.1m aluminuim boat with 3 POB reported sterring problems off the bar and requested assistance. Weather conditions were good with 6nm visbility, 5-15kt NNW wind and calm seas although there was a 1m break on the bar.  Whakatane Rescue was already on the water providing assistance to another boat.  At 1830hr Whakatane Rescue took the boat under tow and towed it across the bar to safety.