An Otago fisherman whose boat caught fire has made a miraculous escape, ramming the vessel onto rocks and jumping to safety.
The boatie was fishing off Kaikai Beach near Aramoana when the engine caught fire.
He slammed it into gear and aimed for shore where it beached on rocks. The fisherman jumped off into waste deep water.
The wheel house and deck of the boat has been burnt out.
(Otago Daily Times)
The Otago Rescue helicopter was called as fire crews were unable to reach him below. The man suffered moderate injuries and is recovering in Dunedin Hospital.
The boat was smouldering on the beach and will be secured tonight.
Newshub.
