A surfer has died after he was brought to shore by lifeguards at Whale Bay, near Raglan, this afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the surf spot at around 2.25pm after receiving reports of a surfer needing medical assistance.

Police said: "The man was unresponsive when brought to shore by Raglan Surf Life Saving. Lifeguards immediately began CPR but sadly the man was unable to be revived.

"The death will be referred to the coroner."