KEY POINTS:
Huddled together on rocks watching their beloved yacht as it was smashed to pieces, Allan and Lorraine Hooper wondered if they, too, would perish.
The Whitianga couple scrambled from the raging sea on to Urupukapuka Island in Northland after their 10m yacht Zazu was holed on rocks, took on water and started breaking up about 6.30am on Tuesday.
The Whitianga grandparents launched their trailer-sailer at Tutukaka nine days ago and were halfway through their holiday when the weather changed, throwing their trip into turmoil.
The rough seas, combined with a failing motor, led them to anchor in the Albert Channel near Urupukapuka Island on Monday night.
They called the Coastguard for help after they feared the small boat would not hold anchor in the huge swell.
Coastguard Bay of Islands found the yacht, but was unable to help due to the rough conditions and darkness.
When helpers returned on Tuesday morning, Zazu had capsized and the Hoopers were nowhere to be seen.
"We thought we'd ride it out for the night, but it was uncomfortable," 65-year-old Mr Hooper said.
Eventually the anchor let go and Zazu was swept on to the rocks.
"We were going from sea to rocks, backwards and forwards about five times.
"The first few times there were just big bangs, then about the fourth one it smashed a hole in the side."
The couple managed to pull on life-jackets before grabbing a life raft and leaping into the sea.
They were unable to get in the life raft and had to cling to the side, sometimes becoming separated in the surging swell.
Waves washed over them as they were pummelled on the rocks. Finally they clambered ashore.
"When we first got there and were lying up against the rock I wondered how anyone was going to find us," 57-year-old Mrs Hooper said.
Then they heard a voice.
It was a member of the Coastguard who had come searching for them.
The Northland Electricity Rescue Helicopter soon hovered above and the skilled rescue team plucked the cold and shivering couple to safety.
"They were so quick and efficient," said Mrs Hooper.
"One minute we were on the ground, the next we were sitting in the helicopter.
"I'm so thankful to all the people who came to help us."
It was the most traumatic experience the sailors have gone through.
"It's a graphic reminder of just how quick things can turn to custard at sea," said Mr Hooper.
For the past 10 years the couple have sailed off the coast of Whitianga, but this summer decided to venture north.
They said sailing was off the list of holiday activities for next year, and they were considering buying a caravan instead.
- NORTHERN ADVOCATE
