West Coast fisherman rescued after boat wrecked

Photo / Chris Loufte

A helicopter scouring a rugged section of coastline on the West Coast has recovered a fisherman whose boat was wrecked on rocks.

A search and rescue operation was launched off Little Wanganui early this evening after the man was reported overdue from a fishing trip.

He had left Little Wanganui about midday in a 4.2 metre Ospray boat and was expected home about two hours later.

Police were notified he was overdue about 6pm by his partner.

It was believed the man had no lifejacket or any other survival equipment with him.

The helicopter crew spotted him about 8.45pm.

Police say his boat had been caught by a rogue wave and was smashed on rocks. The man had made it to the shore.

Conditions in the area were described as calm but very cold.