A New Zealander attempting to be the first person to kayak solo across the Tasman Sea has had to turn back because of a waterlogged satellite phone.
Scott Donaldson, 42, was forced to return to Coffs Harbour on the New South Wales central coast after starting out on Thursday.
Donaldson, who is aiming to reach the Taranaki coast, says his satellite phone was ruined after the bag holding it leaked.
The ABC reports he aims to try again in a few days time.
Mr Donaldson has been planning the trip for three years to raise awareness about the importance of exercise to help asthma.
Colin Quincey and his son Shaun Quincey have completed the crossing in 1977 and 2010 respectively and there have been several double and quad rowing crossings.
But a solo crossing by kayak has never been achieved.
