“The team at SLSNZ extends our heartfelt condolences to the whānau and friends of the deceased.

“We are providing support to the surf lifesavers involved.”

Emergency services were called to Piha Beach on Thursday afternoon after reports a man fishing off rocks at Piha’s southern end had fallen into the water.

The man, described as being of Asian descent, was wearing a lifejacket.

The incident happened at an area known as The Gap — a spot between Flat Rock and Taitomo Island.

The west coast beach is regarded as notoriously dangerous with a number of drownings, rescue incidents and near-misses reported over the years.

The man lived in the Auckland region, a statement said.

“Police are supporting his family while he remains missing.”

On the day of the incident, lifeguards immediately got an inflatable rescue boat and two jetskis into the water, while others monitored on land.

The police Eagle helicopter also carried out an initial aerial search of the area.

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