headline

Beaches closed after teen surfer bitten by shark on NSW Central Coast

A young surfer has been mauled by a shark on the New South Wales Central Coast.

Avoca and North Avoca beaches are closed after the teenager was bitten on the arm while in the water just after 7am this morning.

He was taken to Gosford Hospital for treatment, a NSW Ambulance spokesperson told nine.com.au.

READ MORE: Vegan mum gets life in prison for starvation death of son

North Avoca is a popular beach for swimmers and surfers on the NSW Central Coast.

"Our thoughts are with the young surfer who sustained a wound to his right lower forearm," Central Coast Council said in a statement.

"We ask that all community members avoid Avoca and North Avoca beaches at this time until DPI (Department of Primary Industries) and Council can investigate this incident further."

A drone has been deployed to North Avoca beach to look for the shark.

The boy has since been discharged from Gosford Hospital.