Two missing Oamaru men were rescued from an island on the Waitaki River early this morning.
A search and rescue operation was launched for the father and son yesterday when they failed to return from a boating trip on the river, Sergeant Tony Woodbridge, of Oamaru, said.
''They went in at about 2pm and were due back at 5pm,'' he said.
At 8pm, they were reported missing by a family member and a search and rescue operation was launched.
The men were found about 1am on an island in the middle of the river in the Bells Pond area.
''They had a fire going, keeping them warm and as a signal for help,'' Sgt Woodbridge said.
''Their [jet] boat had broken down, with engine problems, and they were both trapped on this wee island.''
Sgt Woodbridge said it was a timely reminder for boaties to ensure they had all of the necessary emergency equipment with them on board, such as cellphones, beacons and flares.
