A Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) spokesperson said surf lifeguards from Baylys Beach responded to the incident.
“At approximately 7pm, after patrol had finished for the day, Police informed SLSNZ of two people caught in a rip, 300m north of the access way at Glinks Gully, which is approximately 17km south of the Baylys Beach patrolled area.
“Three surf lifeguards from the Paid Lifeguard Service responded in a Toyota Hilux ute, towing an inflatable rescue boat (IRB).
“They were supported by the Baylys Beach Search & Rescue squad, which travelled to the area with another Toyota Hilux ute, towing a rescue water craft (RWC – jetski).
“The first surf lifeguards to arrive at the scene launched the IRB and located both people, who were in the water and unresponsive. They returned them to the beach to commence CPR. Unfortunately, resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful.”
Map of the rāhui from the Glinks Gully entrance to Mahuta Gap. Photo / NZ Police
FENZ, Hato Hone St John and the Northern Rescue Helicopter also attended the scene.
Local iwi has placed a rāhui on the area until 7pm tomorrow.
The deaths have been referred to the Coroner.