Search and Rescue have been called after a boat lost power off the coast of Aramoana.
A journalist at the scene said the "large pleasure craft" was towed in the direction of Portobello about 5.45pm, by another boat.
Both were escorted by a Coastguard vessel.
A police spokeswoman said emergency services were called about 4.45pm, and Search and Rescue were deciding what course of action to take.
It had "a number of people" on it; all wearing lifejackets.