A night-time search north of Auckland ended safely after a missing diver was rescued near Goat Island Marine Reserve.

Police raised the alarm just after 9pm on Monday when a diver’s car was found at the reserve, sparking fears he had not returned from a planned night dive.

Although the diver was experienced in night diving, concerns mounted as he was out alone. The Police Eagle helicopter and Deodar 3 vessel were deployed, along with Coastguard Kawau and Hibiscus Rescue volunteers. Six crew from the vessel Kawau Rescue also joined the operation.

The Eagle helicopter located the diver around 9.18pm, about 100 metres offshore, and directed him to conserve energy while guiding Coastguard to his position.

Kawau Rescue made excellent time in favourable conditions, covering 15.5 nautical miles from base to reach the diver. The crew brought him aboard via the stern ladder and carried out checks for hypothermia and exhaustion. Despite the length of time he had been in the water, he was in good condition thanks to appropriate equipment and a warm wetsuit.

The diver was returned to his friends at Leigh Wharf around 10.45pm. From callout to return, the entire operation took just under two hours.

The coordinated response between Police, Coastguard and rescue crews ensured a smooth outcome to what could have been a life-threatening situation. Authorities are reminding divers to avoid going alone at night and to always carry a fully charged torch.

The operation highlighted the commitment of Coastguard volunteers, whose training and late-night callouts play a critical role in saving lives on the water.