Fisherman missing for seven days found alive in Cook Islands

A fisherman who had been missing for a week was found alive in a small aluminum boat near the Cook Islands, a remarkable rescue approximately 2,100 miles north of New Zealand. Authorities announced on Friday, June 19, that the man was located by a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) P-8A Poseidon aircraft crew.

The rescue operation took place on the morning of the same day. Photographs released by the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) show the fisherman, wearing a blue shirt, black shorts, and a visor cap, waving to his rescuers. The announcement noted that nearby fishing vessels were able to pick him up.

According to the NZDF statement on June 19, the man had set off from Pukapuka Island on June 11 for a day of fishing but never returned. Pukapuka Island, historically known as Danger Island, is recognized as one of the most remote islands in the Cook Islands archipelago. His disappearance was reported to local police the following day, and the New Zealand Rescue Coordination Centre had requested RNZAF assistance earlier in the week, with the search commencing on June 18.

Cook Islands Police Commissioner Tai Joseph expressed gratitude for New Zealand's assistance in the rescue effort. The Police Service had informed Maritime NZ's Rescue Coordination Centre earlier that week, leading to an aerial search by an RNZAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft on Wednesday, according to a statement from the Cook Islands police. While the rescued man's identity has not been officially confirmed, the Cook Islands News reported that rescuers were searching for 42-year-old Pone Apiuta in the same area. Reports suggest the details align significantly, though confirmation is pending.