The search for a 16-year-old boy who went missing at a treacherous west Auckland beach is being scaled back as it enters its sixth day.
Photo: RNZ / Jessie Chiang
Emergency services were called to Whatipu Beach near Huia last Saturday after several people got into trouble in the water.
Two women made it back to shore, but search teams are still looking for the teenager.
The police have called off the land search but aerial searches with the eagle helicopter will continue throughout the day.
Surf Life Saving teams are also searching the water.
Photo: 123RF
Whatipu is an unpatrolled beach near the entrance to the Manukau Harbour.
The Auckland Council says there are two signs at the beach warning people that the area is not safe for swimming.
The family of the teenager is holding a vigil at the beach until his body is returned.