KEY POINTS:
A man is dead after participating in the New Zealand Ocean Swim series on Auckland's North Shore, making this the second year in a row a competitor has died during the race.
Last year, a man suffered a fatal cardiac arrest.
Event director Scott Rice said the man died while taking part in the 2.8km open-water King of the Bays swim at Takapuna Beach.
"We can confirm a man has died during this swim but until we have had a full debrief with safety staff we do not want to comment further," he said.
"Everything that could have been done to save him was done and all of our safety procedures were followed.
"Of course, our thoughts are with his family and friends at this stage. We will be carrying out a full safety debrief next week with staff."
King of the Bays is an annual event as part of the Ocean Swim Series.
Competitors have the choice of competing a 750m or 2.8km race along Takapuna Beach.
