New Zealand boat capsize leaves five dead after ‘indications’ vessel collided with whale

Five bird watchers drowned in waters off of New Zealand’s South Island after “indications” a whale collided with the vessel, police have said.

Five people are dead after a boat flipped in waters off of New Zealand’s South Island on Saturday, with “indications” the vessel capsized after colliding with a whale.

The boat, which had 11 people on board, mostly from a birdwatching group, overturned in calm waters soon after 10am at Goose Bay, about 15 kilometres south of Kaikoura, according to local officials.

A rescue operation that spanned nearly seven hours ended when a police dive squad recovered five bodies from inside the vessel.

Six people were rescued, having suffered minor injuries.

Media reports said the skipper of the boat had survived.

Photo from a helicopter circling the upturned vessel in Goose Bay with one person seen on the hull. Photo / Supplied /NZ Herald.

Earlier, images on social media showed survivors waving for help on the upturned hull of the 8.5-metre boat, which police confirmed belonged to a local charter business.

Kaikoura mayor Craig Mackle told AFP there were “indications” the boat had collided with a whale, however police wouldn’t comment on that possibility as their investigation continued.

“The information we have at the moment is it appears to be a collision. With what, we don’t know at this stage,” Kaikoura police sergeant Matt Boyce told a press conference.

“This is an unprecedented event that has occurred, involving significant response from emergency services and members of the public.”

Kaikoura is a popular spot for whale watching.

Mr Mackle was perplexed at how the boat had capsized in what he said were “flat, perfect” conditions, and confirmed it was a time of year when whales were prevalent off Kaikoura’s coast.

“Humpback whales are coming through at the moment and we have sperm whales that are resident.”

Kaikoura is a popular tourist attraction because of its abundant wildlife and boasts the country’s premier whale-watching experience.

“This is a tragic event that affects many lives, not least of all, family and loved ones,” Mr Mackle said.

“Our heartfelt sorrow and condolences go to them.”