Ferry sinks off Tonga, 27 missing

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - A search and rescue operation has been launched after a ferry sank off the coast of the Pacific Island nation of Tonga, with 27 people reported missing, New Zealand rescue authorities said on Thursday.

Two New Zealand air force planes are on their way to join local vessels at the scene, about 53.4 miles northeast of the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa, after a distress call was received about 11 p.m. local time on Wednesday (1100 GMT).

The ferry was carrying 79 people, with 52 having been rescued so far, the Rescue Coordination Center New Zealand (RCCNZ) said in a statement.

Three ships are at the scene looking for survivors in a 80-square mile search area, the RCCNZ said.

It is not know what caused the ferry to sink.

Weather conditions are reported to be moderate, with a two to three meter swell, which is forecast to ease, and a water temperature around 25 degrees Celsius.

The ferry had been traveling from Nuku'alofa to Ha'afeva, in the Nomuka Islands group.

(Reporting by Adrian Bathgate)