Diver found dead - Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand

[DandyDon]

Diver dies in Hauraki Gulf

A man has died while diving in the Hauraki Gulf.

Police said a statement the diver was found unresponsive about 12.30pm in the water near Channel Island, between the Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island.

His diving buddy pulled him from the water and into a boat, while a helicopter was dispatched.

Despite undergoing CPR, the diver did not survive, police said.Despite undergoing CPR, the diver did not survive, police said.

A Royal New Zealand Navy vessel in the area the time provided medical assistance and took the man to shore.

Police were providing support to the man's family, and the death has been referred to the coroner.

The steep rock island, in the Colville Channel connecting the Hauraki Gulf to the Pacific, is a well known fishing spot frequented by free-diving spearfishers.

It is unknown what the diver was doing at the time and police have yet to release his name.