Police received the report at 12:40 PM, indicating that two individuals on a jetski were in trouble. Senior Sergeant Andy Livingstone of Police confirmed that one person, along with the jetski, was safely brought to shore with the assistance of Police and the Taupō Coastguard.
A second person remains unaccounted for after being last seen struggling in the water.
“The Police National Dive Squad has been notified and is expected to deploy tomorrow,” Senior Sergeant Livingstone said.
Efforts are ongoing to locate the missing person, and the situation has drawn support from the local community. The Tūwharetoa Maori Trust Board and local hapū are actively assisting those affected.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of water safety and the unpredictability of conditions on New Zealand’s lakes.
Police urge anyone planning water activities to take necessary precautions, including wearing life jackets and checking weather conditions before heading out.
Further updates will be provided as the search continues.
