Mystery of Mystique

By SCOTT MacLEOD

A mystery launch has been found drifting off Auckland's coast with a damaged hull - and no one on board.

Ten days have passed since the 9m launch Mystique was found semi-submerged off Whangaparaoa.

Police are puzzled how it came loose from a secure mooring and suffered a punctured hull. Nobody has claimed the vessel.

Sergeant Steve Hawkins said Mystique was securely moored at Tindalls Beach on December 19. At 6am the next day, a boatie found it drifting 1.6km from the mooring.

Mr Hawkins asked anyone who knew the boat's owner to phone 09 424 6503.

Further reading: nzherald.co.nz/marine