UPDATE 1.30PM: A paddler who got into trouble in the Tauranga Harbour has been rescued by a passing boat and brought to shore.

Police and Coastguard were called to help a man who got into trouble in the water about 400metres from Fergusson Park in Matua around 12.30pm.

The paddler and a surfer were brought to shore at Sulphur Point Marina.

A man holding onto a channel marker in the Tauranga Harbour.

The man was seen holding on to a harbour channel marker after his canoe or kayak became swamped.

Police at Fergusson Park earlier said a surfer went out to help the man and both have since been picked up by a boat.

They were returned to shore at Sulphur Point Marina where St John Ambulance paramedics were waiting to assist.

The tide is currently on its way out with high tide at 10.22am today.

Wind speed in the inner harbour is currently blowing between 10 and 12knots.