11 kayakers rescued over two days

Wellington maritime police and other groups have rescued 11 kayakers in the harbour over the past two days and blame lack of understanding about weather and sea conditions.

They said another two would-be kayakers had to be told not to head out on to the water even though they had just seen the police launch return four paddlers to shore.

Police added all the rescued kayakers found themselves in situations beyond their skills and the capabilities of their crafts because of strong winds in Wellington.

The police launch Lady Elizabeth III, Coastguard Spirit of Wellington, Westpac rescue helicopter and police patrol staff from Lower Hutt had to be called out, Andrew Cox of the Wellington police maritime unit said.

He urged people contemplating adventures in kayaks this holiday to pay particular attention to the weather and know the limitations of themselves and their craft.

"A clear lack of understanding of the weather, sea conditions and inexperience have been one of the main causes of all of the incidents," Constable Cox said.

- NZPA