Paramedics were called to an incident at a beach in Pātaua, Northland, this afternoon. Image / Google
A male is in a serious condition in hospital after a water incident at a beach in Northland this afternoon.
The victim has been taken to Auckland's Middlemore Hospital for treatment after an incident at beach in Pātaua just before 1pm.
A St John spokeswoman said it was thought the male victim - whose age is unknown - had fallen into the water.
"We just know it's a water incident,'' she said.
Paramedics were sent out in two vehicles and a helicopter was dispatched to the scene also.
A resident said there were several private baches in the area and the beach was popular with those who travelled there over the holiday season.
There is no need for people to be alone or hungry on Christmas Day with two free events.