Attribute:  Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Matenga Gray 

Two people have died and another has been taken to hospital following a water incident near the mouth of the Tangimoana River, Manawatū.

Emergency services were first called to the scene at approximately 8.35am after a report of a capsized boat.

Three people were reported to be in the water. 

Sadly, two people died, while another sustained injuries and has been taken to hospital.

The deaths are expected to be referred to the coroner.

ENDS

A man who spent the night surrounded by water after becoming trapped on rocks following an afternoon of fishing is today thanking his lucky stars, as well as emergency services.

At about 7.45pm last night, the man’s friend raised the alarm after he had set off with his rod and nothing else towards Te Anina Point but failed to return.

Northland Police Search and Rescue Team Leader, Senior Constable Sam Davidson says the pair had arrived at Tauranga Bay about 2pm.