Woman dies on launch off Northland

A 43-year-old woman has died after she collapsed on a launch off the coast of Northland.

Coastguard's Operation Centre received a call via marine radio from the 60 foot launch Aquila alerting them that a person on board had collapsed and was unresponsive about 10.25am today.(Friday)

The launch was off popular Whangarei's Ocean Beach and had four people onboard.

Police and Coastguard vessels from 'Tutukaka Rescue' and 'Circa Rescue' from Tutukaka and Whangarei responded, and the Northland Emergency Services Trust Helicopter also flew to the scene.

Two paramedics were winched on to the boat where the crew members were carrying out CPR.

Following the decision by paramedics on scene to cease CPR the vessel was escorted back to Marsden Cove Marina by Coastguard volunteers.

Ray Burge, Operations Manager for Coastguard said it was an absolute tragedy for the friends and family of the woman.

"The people on board the vessel are to be commended for their prompt action and their ability to remain calm in what was as stressful situation," Mr Burge said.

" Their use of a Marine VHF Radio which enabled Coastguard to communicate directly with them and the rescue vessels responding to the scene."