A boy has been identified as the person who drowned at a beach southwest of Auckland yesterday.
The Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter said it was called to Karioitahi Beach about 7.30pm to help a boy involved in a water incident. He was initially said to be in a critical condition.
The youngster's exact age has not yet been revealed by authorities.
"He was located in the surf by the Police Eagle helicopter and brought to shore by off-duty surf lifesavers," a statement said.