Newstalk ZB
The search for a crew member lost at sea after being knocked overboard has been suspended. The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) confirmed the person went overboard the New Zealand-flagged trawling vessel Mariner on Sunday, about 215 nautical miles east of the Auckland Islands. TAIC said the crew member was knocked overboard by a float while deploying fishing gear at about 10.40pm. The person was not sighted again after falling overboard. A person was knocked overboard a New Zealand fishing boat approximately 215 nautical miles east of the Auckland Islands. Maritime New Zealand said the on-water search involved two vessels, including the commercial fishing boat involved. “In coordinating the search, RCCNZ [Rescue Coordination Centre] issued mayday relays and provided drift modelling,” a spokesperson said. “The drift modelling was used to guide search efforts.” Maritime New Zealand confirmed it would be investigating the incident. “Our thoughts go out to the crew member’s family and the crew of the vessel. “We also want to thank those involved in the search.” The search was officially suspended after a thorough review on April 7. Police said they were in the early stages of making inquiries to piece together what had happened. TAIC earlier said that it typically opened an inquiry when it believed the circumstances of an incident could have “significant implications for transport safety” or may lead to safety recommendations.
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