Coromandel boaties are being urged to take extra care, after a capsize at the notorious Tairua bar yesterday morning

The five-and-a-half-metre aluminium McKay boat flipped after hitting a large wave - and is now submerged, waiting to be salvaged from Shoe Bay.

Officials say people should know the bar they're crossing and log it with Coastguard, never cross near low tide, always wear a lifejacket - and check the weather.

Both people on board were wearing life jackets and swam to shore unassisted.