Emergency services were called to Piha at approximately 6.30pm this evening when it was reported that a tramper was trapped on the rocks by the high tide.
His location was about 500 metres from the Blowhole rocks.
Piha Surf Rescue staff tried to get to the man but were thwarted by the rough sea conditions.
Due to overhanging ledges a rope rescue or helicopter winching could not be conducted.
The Police helicopter eagle using their high powered lighting and making phone contact was able to guide the tramper to a higher position on the rocks and safe from the incoming tide.
The 23year old male is in possession of warm clothers and a sleeping bag and is in good spirits. He will be spending the night on the rocks.
High tide has now passed and Search and Rescue staff hope to assist him to leave the rocks at 3.30am when it is low tide.
The Northern Communications Inspector Tony Wakelin was critical of the lack of planning by the tramper. His actions in not making appropriate assessments of tide times and conditions has resulted in him being placed in danger and significant resources of equipment and staff have been deployed which could have been utilised elsewhere.