Tug boat reaches yacht Platino

The tug boat Sea Pelican is now towing the stricken yacht Platino back to Auckland after reaching the yacht around 8.35am this morning, north of New Zealand.
 
Auckland City District Police Operations Manager Inspector Vaughn Graham says that around 1pm the Sea Pelican began towing the yacht back to Auckland. 
 
“The yacht appears to be in a reasonable condition. At this stage we can’t say what the expected arrival time back to New Zealand will be as it’s all weather dependent,” says Inspector Graham. 
 
“Formal identification is yet to take place however Police believe the body of the man recovered and on board Platino is that of Nick Saull. 
 
We also believe the man reported missing overboard is that of Steven (Steve) Forno, 53-years-old from Devonport.
 
Mr Graham says Police are now investigating the circumstances of Mr Saull’s death on behalf of the Coroner. 
 
“This is obviously a very difficult time for the families of both men and they have asked that media respect their privacy at this difficult time.”
 
No further information is available at this time.
 
Ends
 
Kim Chambers 021 911 967 / NZ Police