A child has drowned in the ocean near Napier's Marine Parade on Friday.
Emergency services were called at about 3.30pm after receiving a report a child was in difficulty in the sea off Marine Parade.
Police say despite the efforts of four officers and a member of the public who went into the water, the child has tragically died.
The member of the public was taken to hospital for assessment.
Police are currently providing support to the child's family.
"No one expects a visit to the beach to end this way," says Eastern District Commander Superintendent Jeanette Park.
"This is a devastating outcome for this family and our thoughts and aroha are with them.
