Man drowns at Ruakākā Beach in Northland

A man drowned at Ruakākā Beach in Northland this morning. Photo/ by Michael Cunningham.

A man has died after getting into difficulty in the water outside the flags at a popular swimming beach in Northland.

Police were called to Ruakākā Beach at about 11.20am today following reports that a person was in trouble.

The Advocate understands that two members of the public reportedly headed out on surfboards to help the man, unconscious in the surf.

Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) reported that lifeguards from Ruakākā launched an IRB to bring the man ashore.

SLSNZ Northern Region General Manager Zac Franich said the lifeguards carried out CPR and used a defibrillator.

Despite rescuers’ efforts, the man was “unable to be resuscitated”.

Franich said all the lifeguards involved in the incident will be provided with the necessary support services.

“We send our deep condolences to the person’s family and friends.”

Police said the man’s death will be referred to the coroner.