Two people have been hospitalised, one in a serious condition, after a water-related incident at West Auckland’s notorious Piha Beach.

A Surf Life Saving NZ (SLSNZ) spokesperson said Paid Lifeguard Service (PLS) surf lifeguards noticed two swimmers in trouble north of Lion Rock and immediately responded.

“One surf lifeguard immediately entered the water to recover the closest patient, who was rescued and returned to shore in a moderate condition,” SLSNZ said.

“PLS surf lifeguards from South Piha launched an IRB and rescued a second patient, returned them to Piha Surf Life Saving Club in a serious condition, with oxygen administered.”

Emergency services responded to the beach shortly after 4pm, along with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Hato Hone St John earlier said it was notified of a water incident near Marine Parade South this afternoon and responded with one ambulance and one first responders unit.

No further information was available because the incident was still active, St John said.