A man has died after being pulled unresponsive from the water at Titahi Bay on Sunday afternoon.
Police were called to Bay Drive about 2.15pm after reports a man had been brought ashore from the sea.
Despite efforts by members of the public, surf lifeguards and ambulance staff, the man could not be revived and died a short time later.
Surf Life Saving New Zealand said the man was recovered from the water by a member of the public using a boat. Titahi Bay Surf Life Saving Club patrol members took over CPR until ambulance staff arrived.
The club said its lifeguards responded in challenging conditions and praised the coordinated emergency response.
“Today we had an incident at our beach. Our lifeguards all did a fantastic job given the very challenging circumstances,” the club said in a statement.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand, local search and rescue volunteers, and peer support teams also attended.
Following the death, Ngāti Toa Rangatira has placed a rāhui over the affected coastal area south of Titahi Bay near Pipinui Point.
The rāhui extends from Pipinui Point, also known as Boom Rock, to Kōmanga Rau Tawhiti, or Green Point, and approximately one nautical mile out to sea.
Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira said the rāhui was put in place to acknowledge the loss of life and to allow the area to be culturally respected. It is expected to remain in place until 6pm on Friday, December 19.
“Our thoughts are with the whānau and loved ones at this time,” the Rūnanga said.
Police said the death will be referred to the Coroner.
RĀHUI NOTICE:
Following the passing of a diver south of Titahi Bay near Pipinui Point yesterday, Ngāti Toa Rangatira has placed a rāhui over the affected area.
Rāhui area – from Pipinui Point (Boom Rock) to Kōmanga Rau Tawhiti (Green Point) and extending approximately 1 nautical mile out to sea.
The rāhui is in place to acknowledge the loss of life and to allow the area to be culturally respected and will be lifted on Friday 19 December at 6pm.
Our thoughts are with the whānau and loved ones at this time – Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira.
