A diver has suffered a shark attack near the Chatham Islands, The New Zealand Herald reported.
Hato Hone St John was alerted to the incident at 11:15 am today and immediately dispatched one ambulance to the scene. In addition, a New Zealand Flying Doctors Service plane was sent from Christchurch to assist, but the flight was later turned around.
The Department of Conservation has confirmed it is aware of the shark attack near the Chatham Islands, though no further details have been released.
St John has referred additional inquiries to New Zealand Police, while the Rescue Coordination Centre NZ has directed queries to St John for further information.
The situation remains under investigation. Police have been approached for comment.
More details to follow.