Emergency services were called to the popular and often volatile stretch of coast near Paritutu Rock around 7pm on Thursday.
Reports indicated a teenager had been caught in a rip and was unable to make their way back to the sand.
Police responded immediately to the scene. A water rescue operation was launched, which included tasking a rescue helicopter to the area.
Conditions were difficult. While help was on the way, the teen was seen floating further away from the shore, drifting out with the current.
A member of the public with a surfboard attempted to paddle out to assist. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to reach the struggling swimmer.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Police Officer on the scene and a member of Surf Lifesaving made the call to enter the water themselves.
Using a flotation device, the pair managed to reach the teen and bring them safely back to dry land.
The teenager was assessed on the shore and found to be in a moderate condition. The rescue helicopter was subsequently stood down.
The member of the public who attempted the initial rescue also made it back to shore safely on their own accord.
Central Districts Duty Officer Inspector Ashley Gurney says the outcome could have been devastating without such rapid intervention.
“Without the quick thinking and bravery of my colleague and the Surf Lifesaving team member, this incident would likely be drastically worse,” Gurney says.
“I commend them both on their efforts. It is great that no one was seriously injured or worse.”
Inspector Gurney also praised the surfer who tried to help for being brave enough to attempt a rescue.
