UPDATE: Stricken yacht towed to Mangonui Harbour

After nearly 24 hours since the initial distress call from 'Freedom Hunter', the 45ft yacht who reported taking on water in the Far North, was received the situation has been contained and the distressed vessel was towed by Coastguard's Rescue Vessel 'Bay Rescue II' to a jetty in Mill Bay, Mangonui Harbour.

Having faced testing conditions to bring the vessel back to safety, the conditions are much more favorable now that the volunteer crew has the vessel in sheltered water.

The crew on the assisted vessel is naturally tired due to being awake for so long in an effort to contain the situation.

Sid Galloway, Skipper of the assisted vessel, said the scariest part was discovering his yacht was taking on water and can't thank Coastguard enough for their effort and professionalism when bringing him and his crew back to safety.

Customs met the assisted vessel on their arrival to Mangonui as is normal process.