Two inflatable rescue boats and two jet skis were launched, joining a rescue effort including the Police Eagle, the Northern Rescue Helicopter and Coastguard NZ. Surf lifeguards retrieved a 5-year-old child from the water, leaving one male still missing, Surf Life Saving said. Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter, the Eagle helicopter and Surf Life Saving performed an extensive grid search for him. A rāhui has been placed over Port Waikato and surrounding areas until 8pm tomorrow by the people of Te Pūaha o Waikato. It affects Sunset Beach and the Waikato River from Port Waikato to Kariotahi Beach.

Source: New Zealand Herald December 26, 2025 02:53 UTC