Search under way for two divers in Southern Otago

A search is under way in Southern Otago after two men were reported overdue from a diving trip last night. 
 
The men were diving recreationally for paua and entered the water in Purakaunui Bay. 
 
The men, aged 23 and 51, are from Balclutha. 
 
Police were notified at 7.30pm last night that the men had not returned from their diving trip. 
 
Search teams were deployed immediately and worked until midnight but unfortunately did not locate the men. 
 
The search resumed at 6am this morning.   
 
A land and marine search is under way, focused on the area between Irihuka (also known as Long Point) and Nugget Point. 
 
Several boats and IRBs are out on the water and a LandSAR team is conducting a coastal search. 
 
A helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft were deployed this morning and the Police National Dive Squad has been called in to assist with the search. 
 
No further information is available at this stage – updates will be provided in the event of any significant developments. 
 
ENDS
 
Issued by Police Media Centre.