The man disappeared near Lion Rock just after 6pm last night. A second swimmer needed medical treatment from surf lifesavers. He had minor injuries and wasn't transported to hospital.
Warren Smith, of Piha Surf Life Saving Club, said a swimmer came running up to the club at 5.50pm after beach patrol had finished for the day and alerted them to those in the water.
The club went out in three rescue boats and quickly found one swimmer who needed medical treatment.