Reports of large shark off Mount Maunganui coast

Two reports have been received by police of a shark swimming in the Pilot Bay area. Photo / George Novak, Bay of Plenty Times

There are reports of a large shark swimming off the coast of Mount Maunganui today.

Two reports have been received by police of a shark swimming in the Pilot Bay area, Senior Sergeant Karl Konlechner said.

The first was at 9.30am today, when it was reportedly around 250m offshore.

While reports of the size and species of the shark varied, Mr Konlechner said, it was thought to be between 2m and 3m in length.

Mount Maunganui surf lifesavers are on site and will be investigating using a RIB. Police units are also warning beach-goers.

"Shark sightings are not uncommon in the area. As always, swimmers make their own judgement whether they choose to share the ocean with its regular inhabitants," Mr Konlechner said.

The beach remains open at present.