Police are now able to name the father and daughter who died in Lake Tarawera, Rotorua yesterday (Sunday, 1 December)
They were 40-year-old Zoujie Cai and his 6-year-old daughter Zexuan Cai from Auckland.
Their deaths have been referred to the Coroner.
Police would also like to pass on heartfelt appreciation for the support received from the local community and holidaymakers. A number of people took to the water to help with the search, supplied food and refreshments and much needed comfort to distraught family members.
Officers working at the scene do not know all of those individuals to thank them personally but feel that their efforts should not go unrecognised.
Media enquiries to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.