One person was located in the water and received treatment. File picture. Photo: Supplied
Two people have died after a boat capsized off Taranaki.
Police said three people were aboard the boat when it got into trouble and one of them was located in the water after the boat capsized.
Two people died in the incident and their bodies were recovered about 11.30am.
Police said they were providing support to their next of kin and an investigation into why the boat capsized will take place.
"The vessel involved in today's tragic incident had logged a bar crossing trip report with Coastguard South Taranaki, notifying the radio operators that they were crossing the Pātea Bar," the coastguard reported. "This placed the vessel on a bar watch.
"Coastguard South Taranaki radio operators were watching the bar cameras and raised the alarm, after witnessing the vessel capsize. Volunteers from Coastguard South Taranaki immediately responded.
"Coastguard's national operations centre was also notified by police shortly after and Coastguard Wanganui was also requested to respond. While Coastguard Wanganui launched their rescue vessel, they were stood down by police shortly after.
"Coastguard South Taranaki's rescue vessel remained on shore, as there was no indication anyone was still missing. Instead, volunteers supported police from land.
"The two people who sadly lost their lives - as well as a third person, who was taken to hospital - were brought to shore by nearby boaties, who responded quickly to the call for help. Some of those on board happened to be off-duty coastguard volunteers, who were out fishing in a private capacity.
"This is a devastating outcome, and our hearts and aroha are with the whānau and friends of those involved. We'd also like to acknowledge and thank the nearby boaties - including our own off-duty volunteers - who stepped in to help during this tragic incident."
