Investigations continue after a boat capsized in Kaikoura yesterday, resulting in five deaths

There were 11 bird watching enthusiasts on board the 8.5 metre vessel when it collided with something in the waters off Goose Bay, just before 10am.

Six people were recovered alive, in what Police say was a significant response from emergency services and members of the maritime community.

South Pacific Helicopters owner Daniel Stevenson says he's heard talk of a whale hitting the boat.

He says the conditions were perfect for boating yesterday.

Stevenson says they arrived just before Coastguard did, and saw one individual sitting on an upturned hull, about 150 metres off shore.