A teenager has died after getting into trouble at a West Auckland beach.
A police spokesperson said a group of four people were reported to be in trouble after being stuck in a rip shortly after midday.
Three people managed to make it back to shore. The fourth was rescued by lifeguards.
A St John spokesperson confirmed two ambulances, a first response unit, rapid response unit and a rescue helicopter were called to an incident in the water at Karekare Beach, south of Piha, about 12.12pm today.
The teen was flown to Auckland's Starship hospital in a critical condition but died.
The remaining three were assessed by St John staff. One person was in a serious condition while the other two were in moderate condition.
Fire and Emergency northern shift manager Craig Dally said firefighters had helped with first aid.
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