On Monday 12 January at approximately 11.40am surf lifeguards from Wainui Surf Life Saving Club in Gisborne were alerted to a person in distress at the northern end of Okitu Beach, near Makorori Point.

Surf lifeguards responded in an IRB (inflatable rescue boat) as well as support from the Gisborne SAR Squad. Upon arrival, the IRB crew found one person had been pulled from the water onto the rocks, and lifeguards began CPR while the IRB returned to shore to transport ambulance staff and Police. A paramedic pronounced the person deceased, and lifeguards then assisted with returning them to shore.

The team at Surf Life Saving New Zealand extends its heartfelt condolences to the whānau and friends of the victim. It also commends the efforts of the surf lifeguards involved and has offered support services to them.

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