Coastguard praised the “swift actions” of the member of the public who raised the alarm, particularly in low-light conditions.
They have advised all boaties to log a bar crossing report before setting sail and to ensure they close it on landing. This allows Coastguard to monitor the trip and quickly respond if a boat fails to return.
The rescue came just a day after a tragedy in Whakatāne waters, where a missing diver was later found dead following an extensive search effort.
Yesterday, Coastguard volunteers assisted police in the rescue effort, trawling the area near Sugarloaf Rocks after emergency services were notified of a person in distress.
The search was suspended overnight and resumed overnight, with the diver tragically being recovered earlier today.
Police confirmed this afternoon that a body had been located near the Whakatāne River entrance at 9am.
“Police are providing the necessary support to the diver’s family and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”