Yachties swim for lives

Five people were forced to swim for their lives after the 12m yacht they were sailing on sank last night.

The crew of the yacht, which sank off Rabbit Island, near Pauanui, Coromandel, were found cold and wet within an hour of the mayday call being made.

Pauanui coastguard skipper Steve Morgan said the five had to leave the boat after it started taking on water.

"They are very lucky. They probably had to swim 15 or 20 feet to get out of the water."

The group clambered on to rocks to await rescue, which was quickly made in the new coastguard search boat. Powerful spotlights from the boat picked out the group, and the yacht lying on its side beneath the water.

Mr Morgan said the group's escape was aided by calm seas and a clear night. "They were very pleased to see us. A bit cold, very wet and very pleased to see us."

- HERALD ON SUNDAY