Rescue operation to save yachties
The Press | Monday, 18 February 2008


A rescue operation is under way to save 10 people aboard a French racing yacht 80 miles off the coast of Dunedin, New Zealand


The boat capsized a short while ago.

A police southern communications centre spokesman said a mayday call was received just before 1.40pm.

It was believed the yacht was French and had a crew of 10, but little else was known.

The Wellington-based Rescue Co-ordination Centre (RCC) was handling the emergency.

"We're assisting them with mobilising the water rescue squad from Dunedin," a spokesman told NZPA.

RCC spokesman Ross Henderson told NZPA four helicopters were on their way to the yacht.

UPDATED: Rescuers on their way to save 10 people aboard a French racing yacht 80 miles off the coast of Dunedin say the yachties are uninjured.


The yacht in distress is a trimaran called Groupama 3 which is taking part in the Trophy Jules Verne round the world race.

The National Rescue Co-ordination Centre confirmed at 3pm that the yachties had been located and were uninjured.

They are dressed in survival gear and are awaiting rescue on the hull of the vessel.

Four helicopters are on their way and will winch the yachties to safety.

A Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft is also on standby if needed.

The Groupama 3's rescue beacon alerted authorities in France to itrs distress, who then contacted its New Zealand rescuers.

From Press.co.nz