Search fails to find 8 at sea

The fate of eight people seen in heavy seas off Kaka Pt, south of Balclutha, in kayaks and an inflatable dingy remained a mystery last night.

The Otago Rescue Helicopter, three boats and a fixed-wing aircraft spent most of yesterday afternoon searching without success. Police also failed to find any empty trailer or vehicle that might have carried kayaks.

Rescue spokesman Lindsay Sturt said no one had been reported missing, and the search had been stood down. "We're hoping they came ashore safely," he said.