Two Christchurch beaches were cleared following a sighting of a shark late this morning, but have since reopened.

A swimmer told Chris Lynch Media the shark was seen between Waimairi and North Beach, but more the North Beach end.

“A plane is circling the beaches and 2 RV’s went out in the water to go and check it” the swimmer said.

“A buggy with lifesavers came and drove the shoreline to ask people to get out of the water as there was a shark.”

Another swimming at Waimairi Beach said she “was out trying to body board and got called in.”

A sign warning swimmers about sharks was erected at Waimairi Beach.

Police said they hadn’t been notified, nor had Maritime NZ.

North Beach and Waimairi Beaches were open as of 2pm.