Police are appealing for help to find a mystery surfer who pulled an injured man from the water at Terrigal last month.
The 51-year-old man died a few days later in hospital and detectives are now preparing a report for the Coroner.
At about 5.45pm on Friday, October 20, emergency services were called to The Haven, following reports of a man unconscious in the water.
Police were told the man was scuba diving with a friend before the weather changed and they returned to shore.
The man attempted to climb on to the rocks when he was hit by a large wave causing him to slip and hit his head, falling back into the water.
An unknown member of the public entered the water on his surfboard and retrieved the man before bringing him to shore, where CPR was performed until the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics.
The man was airlifted by Westpac Rescue Helicopter to Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition; however, police were notified that he died in hospital a few days later.
Detectives attached to Brisbane Water Police District are investigating the matter on behalf of the Coroner and are asking for the community to assist in identifying the surfer who came to the man’s aid, as he may be able to assist with their inquiries.
As inquiries continue, anyone with information is urged to contact Gosford Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au