Three boaties have been rescued from a dinghy off the coast of Kaikoura

A police spokesperson says the three were seen waving from the water just after 5.30 this evening, trying to use oars to get back to shore, but kept getting swept out by the strong current.

A member of the public saw the dinghy nearly a kilometre from shore and alerted police.

They were rescued by police with the help of a recreational vessel and were towed back by 6pm.

All were wearing life jackets.

Police say it's a good reminder that wearing a lifejacket increases chances of survival and people should have to forms of waterproof communication on board.