One person missing after swimmers rescued at Piha Beach, Auckland; search under way

A search is under way for a missing swimmer after six were swept away in a rip at Piha Beach in Auckland this afternoon.

Police said they were advised about the rescue by Surf Lifesaving New Zealand (SLSNZ) just after 4pm.

“At this stage, police are aware five swimmers were rescued however the sixth member of the group was not located.

“Search efforts are ongoing to locate this man.”

The Police Eagle helicopter has also deployed to assist with aerial-based searches.

A SLSNZ spokesperson confirmed surf lifeguards from Piha and United North Piha are searching for a swimmer at Piha.

“At approximately 4pm surf lifeguards at Piha saw a group of swimmers who had been swept out to sea in a rip. A number of swimmers have been rescued and one remains missing.

“Piha, United North Piha and Karekare SAR squads have been deployed to help search for the missing man.

“The Police Eagle helicopter has also deployed to assist with aerial-based searches.”

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