Overview
- A New Zealand Defence Force P-8A Poseidon spotted the three in the water at about 2:39pm, directing rescuers to the location.
- Coastguard Gisborne volunteers and the Eastland Rescue helicopter recovered the men and transported them to Tolaga Bay for care.
- The trio had spent roughly six hours clinging to a single lifejacket plus a bucket and petrol can to keep afloat.
- All three were exhausted and showing early hypothermia, and one was taken by ambulance in moderate condition.
- A commercial vessel first reported the capsized 7-metre crayfishing boat before midday, and authorities confirmed they were the only people aboard.