Police are appealing to boaties and pilots to steer clear of the Kaipara Harbour area while a rescue operation is conducted.
Emergency services require a safe working space around South Head.
A number of people have died after a boat got into difficulty in Kaipara Harbour this afternoon.
At least six other people have been rescued and are receiving medical treatment.
Four aircraft continue to search for people in the water; three helicopters and a plane.
At this stage Police are unable to specify how many people have died.
Further details will be released when they become available.
ENDS
Police Media Centre