Police helicopter crew rescues 'ill-prepared' kayakers in Auckland

Three kayakers have been rescued from the water in Maraetai, Auckland, after they capsized on Saturday.

The Police Eagle helicopter responded after the water emergency was reported around 12.50pm.

The helicopter crew quickly found them in the water off Maraetai Coast Road. One of the crew entered the water and stayed with the group for about five minutes, while the Police Maritime Unit and Coastguard headed to the scene.

"It appears all three were ill-prepared," Auckland Maritime Unit's Senior Constable Hayden Hall said.

"Two kayakers were wearing poorly fitted lifejackets, while another put one on after being instructed to by Eagle.