A search is continuing for a missing swimmer near Southshore Spit after police alerted the Coastguard’s Operations Centre at approximately 3:19pm today.

Volunteers from Coastguard Sumner were immediately dispatched, with the first rescue vessel, Hamilton Jet Rescue, launching at 3:37pm, followed by Blue Arrow Rescue at 3:55pm. Jetski Ian Dewe Rescue is also actively involved in the search.

“There are currently six volunteers aboard Blue Arrow Rescue, three aboard Hamilton Jet Rescue, and one on the Ian Dewe Rescue, all searching offshore between Southshore Spit and Sumner Beach,” said a Coastguard spokesperson.

Five volunteers are also working onshore in incident management roles, coordinating search efforts with Police Search and Rescue (SAR).

The operation is being carried out under challenging conditions, with overcast weather, a 1-1.2m swell, poor water visibility, and an outgoing tide. “The wind-driven swell and low visibility are complicating efforts, but our teams are working tirelessly,” the spokesperson said.

The search remains active, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Police are leading the search efforts and will release additional details when appropriate.