Windsurfer spotted in difficulty during storm conditions

Place: Middle of the Pauahatahanui arm of Porirua Harbour

Weather:  cold strong gusty southerly (35-45 knots) with hail, rain and thunderstorm

Police paged the Coastguard Mana SAR team after they had recieved a call from a concerned member of the public who could see a wind surfer who appeared to be having trouble returning to shore.

At about 1500 hrs a predicted weather front came through with a change from a mild and warm NW wind to cold strong gusty southerly with hail and rain.  The windsurfer was thought to be having difficutly in getting the board sailing and was being knocked down by the wind.

Police sent an officer to observe and report on the visual situation whilst a Pelorus crew was put on standby by txt message.  Paul Craven and Trevor Farmer went to the base to prepare for a launch if needed.

Police were able to observe the windsurfer and monitor progress to shore.  Coastguard Mana were stood down when the windsurfer was seen to be standing in the water.

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