New Zealand / Auckland Region

Search for missing swimmer at west Auckland beach suspended

21:17 pm on 30 December 2018

The search for a missing teenager at a west Auckland beach has been suspended for the night.

A swimmer is missing at Whatipu Beach in Huia Photo: 123RF

Emergency services were called to Whatipu Beach in Huia at 1.30pm on Saturday to rescue two people.

Surf Lifesaving said seven lifeguards were involved in the search which turned out to be for three people.

Two women made it back to shore but a 16-year-old boy has still not been located.

One woman was taken to hospital and kept there overnight for observation.

Land, Search and Rescue and the police eagle helicopter resumed a shoreline and water search at 8.30am but that has been called off for now.

Police said they would decide whether or not to continue with the search tomorrow.

Whatipu is an unpatrolled beach near the entrance to the Manukau Harbour.

Water Safety NZ chief executive Jonty Mills said people need to be aware of local conditions and their own abilities and limits before they enter the water.