Seven people have been rescued after their boat overturned off Stewart Island in Southland.
Emergency services were alerted to the incident in Freshwater Bay at 1.45pm today.
Otago Helicopter Rescue Trust chief pilot Graeme Gale said two helicopters were sent to the scene and a St John spokesman told the ODT two people were then flown to Southland Hospital in a moderate condition.
Police Inspector Mike Bowman said the group were transported to Half Moon Bay and all were treated for "various levels of hypothermia"
Two were sent to hospital further assessment, Insp Bowman said.
"Police are very thankful for the quick response provided by the emergency service volunteers and the wider Stewart Island community."
Police are assisting Maritime New Zealand with inquiries to investigate the incident.
