Update: 6:33PM WELLINGTON: A GROUP of passengers from the cruise ship Noordam have been rescued from Wellington Harbour this afternoon after their kayaking trip went wrong.

The eight tourists were on a guided return kayak trip to Matiu/Somes Island.

The group reached the island this morning safely, however, their return journey was thwarted by a strong head wind.  

New Zealand Police said this evening that a Department of Conservation ranger at Matiu/Somes Island called Police when he became concerned by the conditions the paddlers were heading into.

Police said the ranger kept the police launch crew up to date with the location of the group as the rescue unfolded.  

“An elderly male and female from the group were rescued from the water by officers on the Police launch Lady Elizabeth IV. One of those pulled from the water was suffering from mild hypothermia and was treated by Police staff before being transferred into the care of medical staff on board the cruise ship,” NZ Police said.

“An outbound Bluebridge ferry was diverted off its course to avoid members of the group as they were being rescued. 

“The other six members of the kayaking group, who were unfamiliar with the area, were scattered across the main shipping channel, coming ashore at Kau Bay and Mahanga Bay on the Miramar Peninsula. Some capsized as they approached the shore but none of the group required medical treatment.”

Senior Constable Paul Curd said the incident was a reminder that everyone taking to the water should check the marine forecast, carry communications and have a back-up plan as conditions could change quickly.

He said when heading out, it was also important to tell someone about their trip, where they were going and when they would be back.

The incident has been referred to Maritime New Zealand.