Maritime NZ’s investigators have commenced their inquiries into yesterday’s tragic events at Goose Bay to establish the cause of the accident.

Five people lost their lives after the chartered boat they were in capsized.

A Maritime NZ spokesperson said the investigation will involve reviewing the conditions on the day, examining the vessel and interviewing people involved.

“We will conduct our investigation with the utmost sensitivity for those involved.”

Maritime NZ’s investigators will work alongside NZ Police and Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) staff who are also establishing what happened. TAIC announced on Saturday night it is investigating.

The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are still to be established.

A helicopter pilot who was one of the first on the scene told Chris Lynch it was a beautiful day “perfect for fishing conditions.”

Kaikoura Police Sergeant Matt Boyce described it as a devastating and unprecedented event.

“Our thoughts are with everyone involved, including the victims and their families, their local communities, and emergency services personnel,” Boyce said.