Three people were rescued by police after their dinghy was swept out to sea by a strong current off South Bay, Kaikōura on Sunday evening.
A member of the public alerted authorities after spotting the dinghy nearly 1km from shore at around 5.40pm.
The occupants were seen waving from the water and trying to use oars to get back to shore, but they continued to be swept out by a strong current.
Police were able to rescue the occupants with the help of a recreational vessel and tow them back to shore by 6pm.
All of the occupants were wearing life-jackets and no injuries were reported.
Police said the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of wearing life-jackets and carrying two forms of waterproof communication, such as mobile phone or marine radio, when participating in water activities such as boating, jet skiing, and kayaking.
It is also important to be aware of weather and water conditions before setting out, police added.
Newshub.
