Police rescue teens swept away by current during Waitangi celebrations

Police Maritime Unit (from left) Geoff Cramp, Jesse Jenden, and Matt Scheehan. Photo / NZ Police

The Police Maritime Unit was in the right place at the right time to rescue two teenagers from the water off Waitangi.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to descend on Waitangi for this week’s commemorations, described by police as one of the biggest events of the year.

While politics is often the main focus, the national celebration in the Far North also includes waka demonstrations, food stalls and music - with jumping off Waitangi Wharf all part of the celebrations.

At about 3.30pm yesterday, the Police Maritime Unit was returning to the wharf when officers noticed two heads bobbing in the water.

Sergeant Jesse Jenden said the pair were with a group of others jumping into the water when they got out of their depth and found themselves struggling against the strong current.

“They were being swept out in the strong current and were near the 5-knot marker, about 300m from the wharf.

“They were with about 20 kids on the wharf but none of them had noticed they had been swept away.

“It was obvious they were struggling.”

Jenden said when the police boat pulled up alongside the two girls and offered help, they quickly accepted and were helped onboard.

“Another few minutes and it could have been a different result.

“Both were fully clothed and wearing Crocs, which would also have restricted their ability to swim,” he said.

Police were only too happy to help and were pleased to have spotted the pair when they did, Jenden said.

“I guess it was a case of being in the right place at the right time, and I’m glad we were there to help.”

Northland District Commander, Superintendent Matt Srhoj, said Waitangi is one of the biggest events of the year and it takes police months of planning.

Police are running “Operation Waitangi” alongside iwi and the Waitangi National Trust, to ensure everyone is safe.

“Planning involves understanding the environment and sentiment and ensuring we have appropriate contingencies in place.

“We are expecting large numbers of people to attend the week’s commemorations.”

Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.