One person has died and two others have been taken to hospital after getting into trouble in the water at Karioitahi Beach this evening.
Police say they were called to the west coast beach south of Auckland at 7.15pm after three people "got into difficulty in the water".
"Two people made it back to shore and have been transported to hospital, with minor and moderate injuries," a police spokesperson said.
"A third person was pulled from the water, however they were unable to be revived and died at the scene."
Surf Life Saving Northern Region operations manager Alan Gibson said the tragic incident was a strong reminder for the public to stay safe by only swimming in patrolled beach locations.
Police said the death has now been referred to the coroner.
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