BREAKING NEWS ALERT: Rescue operation underway for 14 people off coast of Wellington

BREAKING NEWS ALERT:  A waka which capsized this evening off the Wellington coast in Island Bay has sparked a full rescue operation for the 14 occupants on board.

The waka capsized as heavy rain and wind battered the capital city.

The 14 people were missing but have since been found by rescue teams, boats are rushing to help the occupants on the waka. 

Ambulance crews are rushing to the waka's club to meet the group as they come in.

‘‘We had a police boat showing them in and the ambulances meeting them at the surf club. It (the waka) is about 40 yards off shore.’’

Maritime police Senior Sergeant Dave Houston said conditions around Wellington were ‘‘pretty horrendous’’ this evening.

‘‘It'll be pretty bumpy for them. There's a bit of a risk they'll drag their anchor and end up on the beach.’’

Maritime police did not want to tow the waka in, in case it flipped.

Te Matau a Maui sailed from Napier to Wellington to mark Matariki. It got into the relative shelter of Island Bay after 6pm.

This is breaking news, more to follow..