Search underway after person goes overboard from ferry in Cook Strait

A search is underway for a person that went overboard from an Interislander ferry on the Cook Strait overnight.

A KiwiRail spokesperson said the incident happened from its Kaiārahi ferry.

Police said they were alerted to the incident about 2.20am on Tuesday.

On flight radar, a rescue helicopter could be seen flying in a grid-like pattern a few kilometres out from Red Rocks.

Ten volunteers from Coastguard Wellington were searching the area aboard rescue vessels Reremoana and Spirit of Wellington.

Coastguard said it was supporting police and Rescue Coordination Centre NZ who were leading the search operation.

Police said while they are trying to locate the person, they're are not seeking anyone else in relation to this matter.

By RNZ