Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) can confirm that surf lifeguards from the Paid Lifeguard Service, based at Piha Surf Life Saving Club, today responded to an incident at the beach.

At approximately 12:40pm, Police notified SLSNZ of a person that had been swept out to sea from the rocks at Fisherman’s Ledge, just south of Piha Beach. Rescue response assets were immediately deployed to search the area where the person had been last seen. The person was located and returned to shore via Rescue Water Craft (RWC – jetski) and taken to the club’s First Aid room, where surf lifeguards commenced CPR.

Hato Hone St John Ambulance paramedics took over resuscitation efforts once they arrived. Sadly, the person was confirmed as deceased at approximately 1:20pm.

The team at SLSNZ extends its heartfelt condolences to the whānau and friends of the victim.

SLSNZ also wishes to acknowledge the surf lifeguards involved for their ongoing efforts during the response. Support is being provided to the surf lifeguards involved.

Any further comment should be directed to Police, who will provide more information at their discretion.

Up to date information on surf lifesaving patrols is available on Safeswim. If you see someone in the trouble in the water, please call 111 and ask for Police.

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