Blues sink in pre-season training

Auckalnd - The Blues rugby team were sunk before the new Super Rugby season started on Friday when their kayaks capsized during a pre-season training exercise.

The Blues were attempting to paddle across Auckland Harbour to Rangitoto Island when some of their canoes, known as waka, took on water.

Coach John Kirwan later issued a statement saying the players were never in danger.

"Two of the waka took on water and the safety procedures were put in place," he said. 

"The safety support boat moved in and craft from a yachting event nearby were asked to assist getting players to shore."

The local coastguard said more than 30 people were pulled from the water and all were safe.

Not the most successful of trainings, but our team are safe and sound on dry land. Thank... http://t.co/lPTRr9LDca pic.twitter.com/5ZQyjHTDKw

— The Blues (@BluesRugbyTeam) January 9, 2015

It's a beauty of a day here at Takapuna beach, the team will be kayaking across to Rangitoto & climbing our mountain! pic.twitter.com/14KL8RDok2

— The Blues (@BluesRugbyTeam) January 9, 2015