A man has died at a popular North Shore beach after he was spotted unresponsive in the water.

Police said at midday on Takapuna Beach, they were advised a person was seen unresponsive in the water and had been pulled on to the beach.

Police staff on the scene provided immediate medical assistance to the man.

Police said that despite the best efforts of officers and other emergency services at the scene, the man could not be saved.

Police said his death will be referred to the coroner.

Hato Hone St John responded to the incident with one ambulance, one rapid response unit and two operations managers.