Jet Ski Explodes and Sinks Due to Fuel Vapour Line Fire

Two people were injured on May 16, 2026, after a jet ski exploded near Emu Point.

A vessel near Emu Point reported seeing the craft explode just before 2 p.m. Near the Motuihe Channel. Two injured individuals were pulled from the water and transported to a hospital by ambulance services; both have since returned home to recover.

Senior Constable Nick Hall of the Marine Rescue Centre stated that police are investigating the incident. Early indications suggest the jet ski exploded because a fuel vapour line caught fire, which split the craft and caused it to sink.

According to Hall, the jet ski was 20 years old and had been serviced annually, though the incident occurred regardless of that maintenance.

The Police Maritime Unit indicated that this event may signal a hidden situation for owners of older jet skis.

Police who supported the water rescue are encouraging owners of older craft to check for hidden issues and replace components that perish with age.

Please check all fuel lines and fuel fittings as these items perish with age, and we encourage owners to replace such items periodically. Police