Search Underway for Passenger Who Fell Overboard from Interislander Ferry

A search operation is currently underway for a passenger who fell overboard from the Interislander ferry Kaiarahi in the Cook Strait during the early hours of Tuesday morning. KiwiRail reported that the incident occurred around 2:20 AM, prompting immediate action from local authorities and rescue teams. Police confirmed they are attempting to locate the individual but are not seeking any additional persons related to the incident.

Otago Daily TimesOtago Daily TimesThe New Zealand HeraldMaritime Union expresses condolences following Cook Strait incident

The crew aboard the Kaiarahi ferry were reportedly unaware of the missing passenger until they discovered his vehicle left on board with the keys inside. This discovery raised alarms among the crew, leading them to conduct a search of the vessel. Upon reviewing CCTV footage, they confirmed that the passenger had gone overboard. Maritime Union Wellington branch secretary Fiona Mansell noted that the crew was understandably shaken by the incident, stating, “They’re feeling okay, a little bit distressed.”

Otago Daily TimesMaritime Union expresses condolences following Cook Strait incidentThe New Zealand HeraldOtago Daily Times

Coastguard Wellington has mobilized ten volunteers who are actively searching the area using rescue vessels Reremoana and Spirit of Wellington. The Rescue Coordination Centre NZ is leading the search operation, with two rescue helicopters also deployed to assist. The helicopters were observed flying in a grid pattern over the Cook Strait, indicating a thorough search effort.

Otago Daily Times

Fiona Mansell expressed the union's deep concern for the crew and the passenger's family, stating, “This is a shocking event, and our thoughts are first and foremost with the family and loved ones of the individual involved.” The Maritime Union has prioritized the wellbeing of its members on board, ensuring that support services are available, particularly for those who had direct interactions with the passenger. Mansell emphasized the importance of mental health support, noting that the crew may experience delayed reactions to the incident.

Maritime Union expresses condolences following Cook Strait incident

While the Maritime Union has expressed its condolences and support for the crew, there has been no public dissent regarding the incident. The focus remains on the ongoing search and the emotional impact on those involved.

Maritime Union expresses condolences following Cook Strait incident

There are no conflicting reports regarding the details of the incident as of now. However, the exact circumstances surrounding how the passenger fell overboard remain unclear, and further information is awaited as the search continues.

Otago Daily Times

• “This is kind of like a rare thing.” — Fiona Mansell, Maritime Union Wellington Branch Secretary

The New Zealand Herald

• “Our crew members are understandably shaken by the night’s events.” — Fiona Mansell, Maritime Union Wellington Branch Secretary

Maritime Union expresses condolences following Cook Strait incident

• “This is a shocking event, and our thoughts are first and foremost with the family and loved ones of the individual involved.” — Fiona Mansell, Maritime Union Wellington Branch Secretary

Otago Daily Times

As the search continues, authorities remain hopeful for a positive outcome while providing necessary support to the crew and the passenger's family.

Otago Daily Times