Crew Member Airlifted from Diamond Princess Near New Zealand

A crew member aboard the cruise ship Diamond Princess required emergency medical evacuation after sustaining a serious eye injury while sailing off the coast of New Zealand. The incident took place on January 30, 2025, as the vessel traveled from Brisbane, Australia, to Auckland, New Zealand.

Due to the severity of the injury, the Northland Rescue Helicopter coordinated a successful airlift operation to transport the injured crew member to medical facilities. Authorities have not released details regarding the individual’s nationality or onboard role.

"In the early evening of Thursday, the 30th of January, our crew was tasked by RCCNZ to undertake an offshore winch rescue of a crew member aboard the cruise ship," stated Northland Rescue Helicopters.

The Diamond Princess is currently operating a 14-day round-trip cruise to New Zealand, having departed from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, on January 27, 2025. The voyage is set to conclude on February 10, 2025.