Boy's condition serious but stable

Lox Kellas.
Lox Kellas.
A 14-year-old Dunedin boy remains in a serious but stable condition in Dunedin Hospital after being swept off rocks at Cape Saunders while collecting mussels on Sunday.

Kane Harvey was yesterday transferred to the children's unit from the intensive care unit, but was subject to restricted visiting because of the seriousness of his condition.

His stepfather, 35-year-old David Moses, remained in a general ward, also recovering from injuries sustained when a large wave unexpectedly washed the pair into the freezing and turbulent sea.

Kane's best friend, Micah Wharerimu (14), and Micah's uncle, Cory Ferguson, were also on the fishing expedition.

Mr Ferguson jumped in to help, but also required rescuing.

Micah threw them a life ring installed at Cape Saunders and alerted emergency services.

After more than an hour in the water, the trio were winched to safety by the Otago Regional Rescue Helicopter and flown to Dunedin Hospital.

Mr Ferguson was discharged that night after medical assessment.

Micah was praised by police and other emergency personnel for his level head and quick thinking.

The life ring was installed at Cape Saunders following the death of a Dunedin fisherman, who drowned after being swept off rocks there by a large wave in April 2010.

"It was the first time the device had been used for its intended purpose, and those behind its installation were pleased it had proved its worth."

The ring cost about $200, including rope and installation, Coastguard Dunedin president and Senior Constable Lox Kellas, of Portobello, said.

It was left floating at sea when Kane, Mr Moses and Mr Ferguson were rescued, and had not been recovered.

Snr Const Kellas yesterday ordered a replacement, which could take a week or so to arrive.

He said if the first ring was recovered, it could be used again.

"They are recyclable. It's plastic with a foam inner and has ropes hanging off it."

The Coastguard, a volunteer organisation, would need to secure funding to cover the cost of a replacement ring, he said.

Cape Saunders was notorious for being a dangerous spot, with half a dozen fatalities in the area over the past two decades and many more lucky escapes.

In February 2010, an 18-year-old woman was swept off the rocks, receiving severe cuts and lacerations, before being saved by her 22-year-old partner.

Three months earlier, a 30-year-old fisherman was washed off the rocks, dislocating a knee and breaking both ankles before being rescued by a passing fishing boat.

Snr Const Kellas said those tempted by tales of large blue cod and groper should be prepared for unpredictable, tough conditions.

"To put it bluntly, fishing out there is not for the faint hearted."

Fishermen or divers should observe the sea for at least half an hour before venturing on to the rocks and must wear warm clothing, preferably wetsuits, as well as life jackets or flotation devices, he said.

"Don't go down there in a pair of shorts, a T-shirt and jandals.

Personal flotation devices are essential, as sometimes it can be difficult getting back to shore, and with a swell you can be bashed against the rocks," he said.

Cape Saunders' isolation and patchy cellphone coverage made it more dangerous than most recreational spots, especially in colder months when water temperatures were especially low.

rosie.manins@odt.co.nz

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