Boatie zapped by overhead powerlines

Photo / Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter

A 38-year-old man suffered an electric shock after the mast of a boat struck power lines at the Outward Bound School in Marlborough this afternoon.

Masterton man Riki Te Tau, the partner of an Outward Bound instructor who lives on site at the school in Anakiwa, had been maneuvering the boat out of the water when the mast struck overhead lines.

Outward Bound school director Rob MacLean said a staff member performed CPR, after which Mr Te Tau was responsive and able to speak.

The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter, which airlifted Mr Te Tau to Wellington Hospital, said he suffered serious injuries.

"The actions of quick-thinking locals, who witnessed the event, made a significant difference to the outcome for the injured man."

Mr MacLean said Mr Te Tau was now in a stable condition and would remain in hospital overnight under observation.

"Riki was not involved in an Outward Bound course at the time, and no Outward Bound students have been involved in this incident," he said.

Power was switched off in the area while the boat was moved away from the power lines to a safer position. It had since been restored.