Cellphone saved crew after boat capsized in Hawke’s Bay

A boat capsized 8km off Hawke’s Bay, leaving five crew members in the water. The crew could not activate an emergency beacon or make a mayday call due to the rapid capsizing. One crew member used a cellphone in a waterproof bag to call 111. This action helped ensure the crew remained uninjured. Coastguard Hawke’s Bay was conducting a first aid refresher course when they received the emergency call. The incident highlights the importance of having multiple communication methods on board.