A diver is missing at Flatpoint Beach, Wairarapa.
Police were called at 12:58pm after the man, who was diving with two other people, got into difficulty in the water.
Sgt Peter Rix of Wairarapa Police said two of the party made it to shore, but the third man did not.
The Westpac rescue helicopter and a second chopper searched the area for several hours, with the help of some local fishing vessels.
The naval vessel HMNZS Otago searched the offshore parts of the search area. Some Navy personnel came ashore to help with search efforts.
The Wellington Police Maritime Unit’s launch, Lady Elizabeth IV, travelled some way to the scene but deteriorating weather meant she was forced to turn back.
By nightfall there had been no sign of the missing man.
Searching has concluded for the day, but will resume early on Monday morning.
Newshub.