A leisurely Boxing Day swim took a turn for three people when they became stranded in the Tuki Tuki River while in their vehicle.
Police, fire and ambulance were called to Kahuranaki Rd near Waimarama to assist the group at about 1.30pm.
A police spokeswoman said they responded after hearing a report of a car having gone into the water. The occupants managed to climb onto the roof of the vehicle.
"It looks like someone was driving a 4x4 vehicle and the water was deeper than anticipated and it got stuck," she said.
It wasn't long until they made their way safely to shore and their car was pulled out of the water.
"Police are speaking with those involved," she said.
A spokesperson from Fire and Emergency said they responded to the incident but their services were not required.