“Unfortunately, the person is deceased, and our thoughts go out to the family,” Cooks Beach Fire Rescue spokesperson Brayden Jack said.
Jack thanked everyone involved for their hard work and assistance, including the combined Cooks and Hāhei crews, police, ambulance and Westpac.
He said they had worked in “extremely hard” and “very difficult and dangerous conditions”.
“There will be a lot going on at the Cooks Beach station tonight. We would ask that the public would give everyone space and do not come down to the Fire Station,” Jack said.
Hato Hone St John said it sent two local first response units, a helicopter and a manager to the beach.
Cordons remain in place while emergency services work at the scene.
The death will be referred to the coroner.