Wed Sep 18 02:07:03 UTC 2024: ## Local Man Dies While Whitebaiting on West Coast
**Rapahoe, West Coast** – A man tragically died while whitebaiting at the mouth of Seven Mile Creek near Rapahoe on the West Coast today. According to witnesses, the man was setting his net at around 10am when he was struck by a rogue wave, swept into the sea, and submerged.
A fellow whitebaiter raised the alarm, watching helplessly as the incident unfolded. Police and emergency services, including the Roa Mining West Coast Rescue Helicopter, responded immediately. Despite the rough sea conditions and heavy surf, the helicopter was deployed to assist in the search.
The man was eventually pulled from the water by police and a member of the public, but resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim, a well-known local resident, was identified through his vehicle.
Fire and Emergency NZ assistant district commander Atila de Oliveira described the rescue attempt as challenging, with rough seas and heavy surf hampering efforts. “Even the helicopter couldn’t see anything from above with the sea foam,” he said.
Runanga deputy fire chief Aaron Sheehan also emphasized the dangerous conditions, stating that the king tide and rough seas made it too risky for rescuers to enter the water.
Police have extended their condolences to the man’s family, who are now being notified of the tragic loss. Whitebaiting is a popular activity on the West Coast, and this incident has deeply saddened the community.
First Piper 