A kayaker who decided to go for a paddle during Buller's floods caused a headache for emergency services

The Greymouth Star reports rescue personnel and two helicopters were diverted from flood relief efforts in Westport.

Buller Surf Rescue says the man was pushed out to sea by the river rushing out at 30 kilometres per hour...and got tipped over in the surf.

They weren't able to launch any boats because of the flood water to get him...but the kayaker managed to give a thumbs up to a helicopter, so the operation was called off.

He then managed to paddle ashore where he was met by police.