The search for a missing boatie on the Manukau Harbour in Auckland has been suspended for the evening.
It follows two boaties getting into trouble just before 6pm when their vessel capsized.
A spokeswoman for Coastguard told the Herald they had retrieved the vessel that capsized and sent two overboard, with Coastguard Titirangi volunteers bringing it back to shore.
She referred any further questions about any possible searches on Wednesday to police.
Earlier, their spokeswoman said conditions on the water “are challenging due to swell and darkness”.
The alert was raised with police after the pair got into trouble just before 6pm. One swam ashore but the other remained missing, the spokeswoman said.
Three Coastguard vessels were on the water searching, including from Coastguard Titirangi and Coastguard Papakura. The Herald understands the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter was also involved.
Auckland International Airport’s hovercraft was also on the water.
Coastguard’s spokeswoman said: “Our thoughts are with the whanāu of the missing individual during this challenging time.”
She referred all further questions to police.
Police said they were called to the harbour at about 5.50pm. A spokeswoman confirmed one person had been found safe and did not need medical attention.
The Herald has approached Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter for comment.
Two men winched out Fiordland River after Christmas Day capsize, the rescue was one of 20 on Christmas Day.