Six fishermen who were missing at sea since Tuesday, 23 May, were rescued this morning after being spotted by US Coast Guard (USCG) C130 aircrew on their way back to Hawaii from New Zealand.

The fishermen, who left Nuku’alofa on the Lilite 1 on a fishing trip near Fonoi, Ha’apai on Monday 15 May, did not return as expected on Tuesday, 23 May due to gale force winds and were reported missing the following day.

Police coordinated a search and rescue operation involving the HMAF V.O.E.A. Pangai that was  out at sea training. Police also requested assistance from the Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ).

The US Coast Guard C130, who were in Auckland for a Search and Rescue Workshop, were requested by the RCCNZ to conduct an aerial search of the predicted search area before returning to Hawaii.

They spotted the Lilite 1 at 7.35pm on Thursday 25 May.

The HMAF V.O.E.A. Pangai, with three police officers from the Search and Rescue Unit were deployed that same evening at 10.30pm and rescued the fishermen at 6.30am this morning, Friday 26 May, returning them to Nuku’alofa at 11:00am.

Commissioner Caldwell said he was pleased with the outcome and acknowledged the good work by the RCCNZ and the US Coast Guard.

“Their quick and professional responses was greatly received, and I pass on my heartfelt thanks, as well as [for] the families.”

“We also appreciate the great work of the MET Office, Coastal Radio, local fishermen who assisted in the initial sea search as well as the local domestic airline."

Commissioner Caldwell urged fisherment to excercise common sense when going out to sea. "like checking the weather forecast, carrying beacons, flares, auxiliary engine, and having the means to talk to the shore are basic safety practices.

“Feeding your family by catching fish is important but more important is coming back from the sea to feed them again,” he said.