A chopper was called to Maraetai Beach, in Auckland's east. Photo / Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust
Two beach-goers who got into trouble in the water were flown to hospital yesterday evening.
The two survived but the incidents come amid a grim start to the holidays around the water, with five people drowning around New Zealand.
The Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter was called to Piha Beach, west of the city, shortly before 7pm yesterday, where a 19-year-old man was caught in a rip when out swimming.
It's understood he was trying to get back to shore for some time.
A helicopter spokeswoman said the man was helped by others from the water, near Lion Rock.
He was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.
About 90 minutes later, the chopper was called to Maraetai Beach, in Auckland's east.
There, a teenage girl was struggling to keep her head above water.
"She had gone under for about 15 seconds before being pulled unconscious from the water below the wharf," the spokeswoman said.
The rescue helicopter landed on the grass and the girl was treated then flown to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition.
Detectives flew to Victoria, NSW and Queensland as part of the investigation.