Two people dead and one missing after boat capsizes in Riverton, Southland

Two people have died and one person is missing after a boat capsized near the Riverton bar.

Two people have died and another is missing after a boat capsized on the Riverton Bar in Southland.

A police spokesperson said emergency services were alerted to the capsize about 2.55pm.

Southland Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman said the boat capsized approximately 100m offshore with five people on board.

“Two people were recovered alive from the water and brought to shore before being transported to Southland Hospital,” he said.

“A third person was unresponsive when brought to shore and tragically was unable to be revived by emergency services staff.

“A fourth person was located deceased in the water, and the search for the fifth person remains ongoing.”

Police, Coastguard Riverton, Coastguard Bluff, Hato Hone St John, Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Search and Rescue volunteers were deployed for the rescue.

“This is an absolute tragedy and our hearts go out to all those impacted by this devastating incident,” Bowman said.

“Family and next of kin notifications are currently being undertaken.”

A St John spokesperson said they sent two ambulances and one rapid response to the scene about 3pm.

A Coastguard spokesperson said they were notified by the police of a boat that had capsized at the Pourakino River Mouth.

“Volunteers from Coastguard Riverton and Coastguard Bluff responded on rescue vessels ‘Russell John Chisholm’ and ‘Bluff Rescue’ ”.

“Our volunteers recovered four individuals from the water. Two were found conscious and were brought to shore before being transported to Southland Hospital.

“Tragically, one person was unresponsive and could not be revived, and another was found deceased in the water. We are deeply saddened that one person is still missing.”

Coastguard volunteers said they would continue the search.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the whānau of those who have lost loved ones. Our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time.”