One person has died following a water-related incident at West Auckland’s notorious Piha Beach.

A Surf Lifesaving NZ (SLSNZ)spokesperson confirmed Piha lifeguards responded to an incident on the beach on Tuesday afternoon.

“One person was rescued from the water,” they said.

The Herald understands the person was pulled from a rip by IRB crew, but was unresponsive. After rescuers performed CPR on the patient for almost an hour, it is understood they were pronounced dead at the scene.

A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said they were notified of an incident Marine Parade South in Piha at 3.36pm.

“One first responders unit, one ambulance, and one helicopter responded.”

Police confirmed in a statement the person had been caught in a rip.

“Medical attention was administered, however sadly the person died near the scene,” they said.

“Our thoughts are with their family and loved ones.”

The death will be referred to the Coroner.