Two people were flown to hospital, one in a serious condition, after strong winds and significant swells capsized a group of rafters off the Catlins coast. Race co-director Andy Magness said the incident occurred as wind came up "quite severely" during the afternoon while competitors in pack rafts were travelling north up the coast. Race competitors had to have passed a swim test and were required to be wearing a wetsuit or dry suit and a lifejacket. Photo: screengrabAll capsized racers got themselves to shore, where they were assessed. The rest of the afternoon’s paddling section was called off due to high winds and drained resources following the rescue.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 03, 2026 18:56 UTC