SunLive readers report that two yachts have grounded in Waikorire, also known as Pilot Bay, in Mount Maunganui on Tuesday afternoon.

“One yacht is near the corner of Leinster Ave in Pilot Bay,” said a SunLive reader.

“The name on it is ‘Right On’.”

A second yacht ‘Orinoco’ is reported to also be beached, between Pacific Ave and Grace Ave near the public toilet block.

The yacht 'Orinoco' has grounded in Pilot Bay. Photo / Claire Rogers.

MetService recorded windspeeds of 35 - 43km/h westerlies gusting up to 80 km/hr between 2pm - 4pm.

“It was blowing a gale. There was stuff flying everywhere; it was really nasty,” said a SunLive reader.

“You were hard pressed to take a photo.”

The yacht 'Right On' has grounded in Pilot Bay at Mount Maunganui. Photo / Claire Rogers.

Low tide is at 6.40pm and high tide is not until 12.42am.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council was notified of the incident late in the afternoon.

“We have been in touch with both of the owners,” the duty harbourmaster said.

“The yachts are secured, and as soon as they can, both boats will be taken off the beach.

“The owners will be looking at getting commercial charters to take them off. Both yachts will be removed on Wednesday.”