A chilly start to the day

National Volunteers week honours the collective energies and efforts of volunteers, and none more so than our dedicated boat crew and radio team.

Despite a chilly start to the day, our crew headed out of Sandspit this morning to retrieve a boat that had broken down at Port Fitzroy, Great Barrier Island / Aotea last night.

Yes, it was a lovely trip across and the tranquil scenery of Port Fitzroy never disappoints, especially on a morning when the harbour was glassy calm. The crew of the boat we'd come to retrieve were very happy (and relieved) to see us, and, after a quick briefing, under tow back to the mainland. Various sensors on their outboard decided it wasn't going any further under it's own steam, so it'll be off to the repair shop shortly. It did tow well though!

The trip back to Sandspit was equally scenic and uneventful, with a pod of small common dolphins zooming up briefly to say hello, but otherwise, they were more interested in catching fish.

A four and a half hour round trip, then a quick refuel and clean up of the boat.

Thanks to the crew of Craig, Bruce & Neale, plus our cheerful Ops room, for keeping track of everyone.