Police say they've recovered the body of a deceased East Auckland fisherman who went missing in the coastal waters of Gulf Harbour five days ago.
The Police launch DEODAR went to a coastline location near Okoromai Bay at about 6.30am this morning where the body of the deceased was retrieved from the water. The body has been transported to Auckland. An autopsy is scheduled for later today.
The deceased has been formally identified. He was:
SIUA / Palu
Age 40 years [DOB - 03/11/1966]
Resident of Tamaki.
Police say the man and his companion were in their four metre aluminium boat on Saturday morning when several large waves swept across the boat causing it to sink rapidly. Both men went into the water. The relative was able to swim to shore.
Police have expressed their appreciation to the Hibiscus Coastguard volunteers, the local boating community, residents of Okoromai Bay and Gulf Harbour, for their valuable assistance with the search. A Coroner's Inquest will be held.
Ends:
Kevin [Kev] Loughlin
District Communications Manager / Media Advisor
Waitemata Police District
12-14 Northcroft Street - Takapuna - Auckland
Phone 09 488 9758 - Extn 96308 - Mobile 027 281 0271
Email - kevin.loughlin@police.govt.nz