The search continues for a swimmer who went missing at Piha Beach, as reported by Surf Life Saving New Zealand. Emergency services were called to rescue a group of swimmers, with six brought back to shore but one still missing. This individual, who reportedly cannot swim, has yet to be located despite efforts from coastguard air patrols, police, and surf lifesaving crews.
According to a spokesperson from Surf Life Saving, the conditions at the time of the incident were challenging, with choppy waters, a 2.5 metre swell, and gusting north easterlies. The group had been swimming in a flagged area when the incident occurred. Prompt response from surf lifeguards led to the rescue of four individuals with a rescue board, while two more were saved using an inflatable rescue boat.
Despite deploying three inflatable rescue boats and three rescue jet skis in the search efforts, the missing swimmer has not been found. Surf Life Saving New Zealand has expressed their condolences to the family and friends of the missing person, offering support to the involved surf lifeguards.
