Towing relay Great Barrier to Omaha

Last night’s job was just as it "said on the tin". A call from Ops at 1700 to see if we would be ok to do a relay with Waitoa Great Barrier Rescue.

An 8m Rayglass had broken broke down on the top NE side of Great Barrier. Waitoa Great Barrier rescue went to it and they picked up the boat. It had been working fine but refused to start. 4 years old and the owner had had no issues.

Bruce R wrangled up the duty crew, and we left our berth at 1900, heading to rendezvous with Waitoa (Great) Barrier Rescue at around 1945 off Little Barrier.

Generally, on Great Barrier the Coastguard crew have various other responsibilities, and rather than them being away for long periods we share the load and make sure they can get back to other island responsibilities quickly. We met up with them as planned just off Little Barrier.

The sea was relatively calm with around a half meter swell . Waitoa Barrier Rescue dropped their tow and then let us know so we then could come over to hook up the Rayglass. All done and off we went to Omaha to drop them off at their trailer.

At first it was straight into the sun so that we all had sunnies on and then, as the sun set, a nice colourful sunset. As we reached Omaha the water was like glass and, having shortened the tow, we went into the river with a following tide. Up the river in the dark, buoy spotting and then onto the Pontoon.

Paperwork done, and the boat dropped off on the beach. Paul P took one for the team and helped wrangle the boat onto the trailer so a bit damp on the way back, otherwise all good and a very happy family.

Back on the berth for 2300. Great work by all and thanks for giving up your evening; Bruce R, Bruce S, Rob and Paul P. Also thanks Al for gently lowering the boat back into the water.