A witness said three rescue helicopters had landed in the area, a popular holiday spot, and the Coastguard was also involved.
Along with the rescue helicopters, two ambulances, two managers and a rapid response unit were sent to the Vista Paku area to help.
In the weeks following the incident, in a statement from police, the family thanked Surf Life Savers, emergency service staff and members of the public who helped that day and said they had been inundated with support.
"We are grieving the loss of a husband, father and grandfather who loved the sea and spending time with his family.