A search and rescue operation was started for five men in Fiordland yesterday when strong winds and high seas caused a boat to slip its moorings in Thompson Sound.
The men were staying in a Department of Conservation hut in Deas Cove, waiting out a storm which battered their boats, Genesis and Southern Sam.
The boats were moored together offshore and the inclement weather caused Genesis to slip its moorings and sink about 10.30am. The water set off an EPIRB locator beacon on board and the Rescue Co-ordination Centre (RCC) was notified.
All five men climbed aboard Southern Sam in a bid to locate Genesis, but without success. They later met fishing vessel The Exporter in nearby Doubtful Sound and explained their predicament.
Southern Lakes Helicopters was contacted by the RCC to begin a search and rescue mission. Southern Lakes Helicopters crewman Lloyd Matheson said one of the company's helicopters was at Deep Cove and radioed Genesis to see if help was needed.
The crew of The Exporter responded, saying they had been in contact with the five men and explained the situation.
Genesis was later located by helicopter, washed ashore but still submerged in Deas Cove.
The men would remain aboard Southern Sam until the weather abated. It was hoped they could selvage Genesis today.
