Local boats were quick to respond to assist a yacht in difficulties in high winds at Pilot Bay in the weekend. The yachties had been transferring equipment off their sloop when they lost their tender in high winds on Sunday afternoon.

They drifted after the dinghy, but failed to secure it, and broke their boat hook. The two anchored the nine-metre sloop and let off a flare, which was seen from nearby on shore.

The Tauranga Volunteer Coastguard responded and gave the yachties a tow back to their mooring - and a ride ashore.