Woman dies on Cook Strait ferry

A woman died of a suspected heart attack during a Cook Strait ferry crossing in rough seas yesterday afternoon.

Radio Live reported the Bluebridge ferry was 90 minutes into its voyage from Wellington to Picton when the 76-year-old woman took ill.

Eyewitness Mike Roach told Radio Live the ferry was being rocked by strong winds and high seas when the woman collapsed and was pronounced dead.

Onboard medical staff were alerted, and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was notified but stood down just before take-off.

The woman's body was taken from the Wellington terminal in a hearse before the ferry left again for Picton, Mr Roach said.

Senior Constable Andrew Cox says the crew of the Santa Regina did all they could to help the woman, including calling for any doctors or nurses on board to come forward.

Three nurses volunteered to help but the passenger could not be resuscitated. Mr Cox said the woman had a pre-existing medical condition for which she was taking medication.

- NZPA, NEWSTALK ZB