Kayaker on a crusade found
Hayley Patuwai, 23, set off on his fundraising trip from Plimmerton 12 days ago, intending to kayak and bike to Invercargill. Senior Sergeant Tim Crawford, of Porirua, said a communication breakdown between Mr Patuwai and his family led to him being reported missing when they had not heard from him for 10 days.
Mr Patuwai contacted police yesterday morning after hearing on the radio news that he had been reported missing, while at a petrol station in Timaru. Mr Patuwai claimed to be raising money for at-risk youth in Porirua. However, youth workers in the region said they had never heard of him.
Its a bit of a one-man crusade … something hes decided to do. He does not seem to be with any recognised community groups, Mr Crawford said.
Patariki Hippolite, a friend of Mr Patuwai, said he was not surprised by the escapade: He doesnt really think things through. He wouldve jumped in a kayak that he borrowed and just gone for it.
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Wednesday, April 2nd, 2008 at 1:30 am under