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Hokianga Ferry rescue makes headlines

20 January 2025

The actions of quick-thinking Hokianga Ferry staff who pulled a swimmer to safety after he was swept into the harbour, made national news over the weekend. Ferry Captain Alan Barratt and crew Jack Korewha are being applauded for turning the ferry around to pull alongside the teenager and throw down a rope ladder.

The 13-year-old boy had been caught by the outgoing tide with 25 knot winds after jumping from the Rāwene wharf to chase a ball on Tuesday 14 January.

A story about the rescue was frontpage news for The Northern Advocate on Saturday and was also picked up by national newspaper Herald on Sunday. The story quoted passengers saying the swimmer was having trouble keeping his face above the water when the ferry pulled alongside him.

According to reports, the young man appeared to be in shock but was no worse for wear after his experience, thanks to the quick action of the Kohu Rā Tuarua crew.

There was only a minor delay to the ferry timetable due to this unexpected detour.

The Kohu Rā Tuarua is operated by Northland Ferries on behalf of the Far North District Council and transports vehicles and pedestrians between Rāwene and Kohukohu seven days a week.

Photo credit, Sean Morrissey-Butler at Villa Media.