Coastguard to conduct warbird rescue

One of the New Zealand’s most famous warbirds will be in Lake Taupo this Saturday, but might need a hand getting out.

Taupo Coastguard will be conducting a unique rescue operation on Saturday simulating a rescue from the iconic PBY Catalina flying boat.

Catalina planes were used during WWII by Allied forces including the RNZAF and RAAF. They were chosen for their long range and endurance.

The plane being rescued by Taupo Coastguard was manufactured in 1944 and has been restored and kept flying by The New Zealand Catalina Preservations Society, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to keeping this aircraft airworthy for all to enjoy.

The society is holding its annual general meeting in Taupo this weekend, which provided the perfect opportunity for the Coastguard to practice a rescue.

‘‘Because the plane can only operate on fresh water lakes there is a strong chance that if it ever did run into trouble we would be the one rescuing it,’’ Taupo Coastguard President Mike McSherry said.

‘‘In order to do that properly we need to train with the aircraft and make sure we know how to conduct a rescue.’’

The exercise will see the plane downed in the water with crew members thrown overboard and in need of urgent rescue.

‘‘We will also practice towing the aircraft forwards and backwards in the water,’’ McSherry said.

McSherry said there will be significant challenges conducting the operation which will prove to be learning outcomes for Taupo Coastguard.

‘‘Because it is not a boat, it doesn’t sit the same in the water when we tow it,’’ he said.

‘‘Access will also be harder because the crew exit on pods.’’

Taupo Coastguard said they will also have to be extra careful to ensure the iconic plane will not be damaged in the rescue effort.

They are asking lake users to stay away from the Catalina while the rescue operation is underway in Lake Taupo.

‘‘If people want to see the plane they can view it at Taupo airport,’’ McSherry said.

The New Zealand Catalina Preservations Society said membership into their society is open to all people who want to help preserve the aircraft. Fore more information on joining call 0274 359729.