One student is unaccounted for after an incident at the Abbey Caves in Whangārei, as heavy rain falls.

Police said a group of high school students were doing an exercise at the Abbey Caves on Abbey Caves Road, Whangārei, on Tuesday morning.

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“It was reported a group was in difficulty, and at this stage police are assisting where required,” a spokesperson said.

At 10.35am it was reported the group was in difficulty, Superintendent Tony Hill said.

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“A group of people have since made it out safely, however, one student is currently unaccounted for. We have Police Search and Rescue and USAR crews responding to the area.

“The incident is still very much developing and we will provide further updates as they become available.”

Hill said his thoughts were with the whānau of the missing child as well as those involved in the group outing and the school.

Police continue to advise the public to pay close attention to weather forecasts and emergency management updates given the current weather conditions across the district.

Hato Hone St John have confirmed services are on the scene.

According to the Whangārei Boys High School’s calendar, a year 11 outdoor education group were scheduled to go to the caves today.

Whangārei Boys High School would not comment nor would the school’s principal.

According to the Whangārei District Council website, the Abbey Caves are prone to flash flooding. It suggests people check the weather forecast before visiting.

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