Police said the death would be referred to the Coroner.

A winch extraction of the man was required due to access and incoming tide.

'He wanted to make the most of his life, and to make people happy and loved, and he did.'

All in a weekend's work for Eastern Region surf lifeguards.

The portable water unit can supply fresh water in mass during severe weather events.

Lifeguards were cooking on the barbie when they had to rush to save a mum and three sons.

One is taken out of the water semi-conscious after three kids and an adult hit trouble.

Public rescue equipment to be installed at NZ beaches after tragic drownings.

'You just feel so wholeheartedly for these people that are going through this tragedy ...'

Sixty-one lives have been lost in water-related incidents in New Zealand this year.

Extensive searches for the NZ man and his best friend were called off after three days.

Piha lifeguards spotted the pair struggling in the water and leapt into action.

It's the latest in a series of mass drownings on the country’s busy waterways.

Twenty lifeguards trained for summer, and 90 more qualified to assist at Waimārama.

Jordan Adams had been drinking with workmates when he jumped into a fast-flowing river.

Police responded to the scene after reports the man got into trouble in the river.

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The swimmer was “in serious distress” but managed to grab hold of the flotation device.

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Two of the injured were taken to hospital.

More than $9 million has been budgeted for stormwater improvement in Whangamatā.

Two ambulances have rushed to the incident near Huia.

Emergency services are responding to a water incident in Huia after a boat capsize. Video / NZ Herald

Rescuers were seen combing the area on jetskis and in boats.

Potentially unsafe levels of e-coli bacteria were detected on Thursday.

Coastguard, the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council and local fishing/boating clubs have teamed up to deliver nationwide bar awareness. Video / Coastguard New Zealand

The council said the water network is likely safe but issued the notice as a precaution.

A new cell tower for Mahia Peninsula would cost about $1.5 million.

This morning, there was a very high illness risk for anyone swimming at the beach.

The death will be referred to the coroner.