Fisherman Rescued After Eight Days Adrift at Sea Following Extensive Air and Maritime Search
“The first thing that came out of my mouth was, ‘Darling, I’m okay.'”
After spending seven nights and eight days adrift at sea, fisherman Apiuta was rescued following a coordinated search involving the New Zealand Air Force and nearby fishing vessels, bringing an end to an ordeal during which he survived by conserving resources and maintaining hope of being found.
Apiuta, 42, said one of the most emotional moments during his time at sea came on the third day after he completed his evening prayer. Looking across the water, he spotted what appeared to be a fishing vessel in the distance and believed rescue was within reach.
He said he paddled his small boat toward the vessel as quickly as possible, encouraged by the possibility of being seen. However, strong winds pushed his boat away from the fishing vessel, which eventually disappeared from view before contact could be established.
As the days passed, Apiuta concentrated on survival. He said his priority was to conserve the limited water available to him, protect himself from the cold and ensure that his boat remained afloat while waiting for an opportunity to be located.
On the eighth day, changing weather conditions provided renewed hope. Apiuta said he heard the sound of an aircraft overhead as the sky cleared, prompting him to believe that rescue might finally be approaching.
The aircraft was identified as a New Zealand Air Force plane, which circled above the area after locating signs of his presence. The crew alerted nearby fishing vessels and directed them toward the location to assist in the search.
A Taiwanese fishing vessel subsequently reached the area. Apiuta said he repeatedly blew his whistle until a member of the vessel’s crew heard the signal and directed a torch toward his boat, allowing the crew to locate him in the darkness.
The rescue ended more than a week of isolation at sea. After being brought aboard the fishing vessel, Apiuta was provided with food, an opportunity to shower and the means to contact his family.
He said the first person he called was his partner. Recalling the conversation, Apiuta said his first words were, “Darling, I’m okay.”
Following the rescue, Apiuta was taken to New Zealand, where he is expected to remain temporarily before travelling home.
Despite the experience, Apiuta said he intends to continue working as a fisherman. However, he said the incident has reinforced the importance of carrying essential safety equipment and preparing carefully before every journey at sea.
Reflecting on the lessons from his survival, Apiuta urged other fishermen not to overlook basic precautions. He said they should always carry a torch, wear a life jacket, remember a raincoat and begin every fishing trip with a prayer.
