A search is underway for a swimmer missing from a beach in Christchurch this evening.
The Coastguard Operations Centre was alerted by police to a swimmer missing in the water off Southshore Spit around 3.19pm.
“Volunteers from Coastguard Sumner were immediately dispatched to the scene,” a Coastguard spokesperson told 1News today in a statement.
The first Coastguard Sumner rescue vessel, Hamilton Jet Rescue, was launched at 3.37pm, followed by the Blue Arrow Rescue at 3.55pm. The Ian Dewe jetski is also involved in the search effort.
The vessels are carrying out a search offshore between Southshore Spit and Sumner Beach.
“Search conditions are challenging, with overcast weather, a 1-1.2m swell, and poor water visibility. The outgoing tide and wind-driven swell have further complicated efforts,” the spokesperson said.
“Coastguard volunteers are continuing their efforts, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
