LAUNCH MISHAP.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVII, Issue 17523, 5 July 1917, Page 4

LAUNCH MISHAP.

A GALLANT RESCUE.

[Per Press Association.] WHAKATANE, July 4

A sensational launch accident occurred at Whakatane Heads at one o'clock to-day. The harbour launch with Mr Metcalfe, tho board's engineer, Mr Mays, foreman, and a number of other mcn was returning from Whale Island and 'struck tho outermost rock at the entrance, throwing five workmen into tho sea, which was breaking heavily. Those clung to the rocks, all being rescued ultimately. The last two were in'a perilous position for over an hour and were thoroughly exhausted. Attempts at rescue by boat and launch failed, but a Native named Akima, aged sixty, swam through tho breakers with a rope and all were dragged ashore. Tho daring rescue was witnessed by a large crowd, including the Military Medical Board.