Searching has resumed this morning for a man who went missing while swimming off the Tararua coast.
Police were alerted to the man's disappearance at approximately 4.45pm. The 22-year-old man was swimming off Akitio beach with two other men when he went under and failed to resurface.
Helicopters Hawkes Bay flew the area yesterday and again this morning. They also plan to fly again at low tide which will be about 2pm today. The Police National Dive Squad will arrive within the hour to assist.
In the meantime eight teams each comprising two local search and rescue volunteers are searching the coastline north and south of where the man went missing. They are being supported by four quad bikes and two local crayfish boats.
Police are currently working to locate and notify the man's family. Until that notfication has been done no further information about the man will disclosed.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.