Christchurch, Southshore missing swimmer: Body found by member of the public

However, around 6am police received a report that a body had been located at the South Bank of Southshore by a member of the public.

“Police extend our sympathies to the family of the deceased at this time. His death will be referred to the Coroner,” a police spokesperson said.

A large group of the victim’s family, joined by police officers, are currently carrying him off the beach.

A Coastguard Sumner spokesperson said volunteers were stood down last night in the search for the swimmer who went missing at Southshore Spit just after 3pm.

Earlier, Coastguard NZ said volunteers on board two rescue vessels from Coastguard Sumner – Hamilton Jet Rescue and Blue Arrow Rescue – were searching for the missing swimmer. Its jetski, Bruce Dawn Rescue, was also actively involved in the search.

“All vessels are currently conducting a search offshore between Southshore Spit and Sumner Beach,” the spokesperson yesterday told the Herald.

“There are six volunteers aboard Blue Arrow Rescue, three aboard Hamilton Jet Rescue, and one on Bruce Dawn Rescue.

“Search conditions are challenging, with overcast weather, a 1-1.2m swell, and poor water visibility. The outgoing tide and wind-driven swell have further complicated efforts.”

Several people on the beach with binoculars were spotted, along with dinghies in the water.

Police said they were responding to a water-related incident in Southshore.

St John said it was notified around 3pm and responded with one helicopter, one ambulance and three rapid response vehicles.

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