A man missing after boat capsized in Tauranga Harbour last night has been named as Shaun Hogarth, aged 23, from Tauranga.
Shaun was one of four men who appear to have taken a dinghy to go fishing. They had their own outboard motor with them. None of the men are experienced on the water and the weather conditions were poor. Police are still working to establish the full circumstances of the incident. The boat which was located near Matakana Island by searchers this morning will also be examined.
Shaun's family have issued the following statement: "We're all together as a family and are hoping and praying that he's safe somewhere and will be found soon. We don't wish to say anything further at this stage and would ask that the media respect our need for privacy at this difficult time."
Police are also trying to locate another one of the men who was on the boat. Three of the men made it to shore but one of those men, 22-year-old Liam Kane, has not been seen since raising the alarm with a member of the public. Police are speaking with the other two.
Inspector Karl Wright-St Clair said: "When Liam was seen on the shore last night he appeared to be in good health but it is important that we locate him, not only to check on his welfare, but to find out everything he knows about events last night. It could be that he has information about events that would assist those coordinating the search and help bring some answers to Shaun's family who are understandably very distressed."
Police are urging Liam Kane, or anyone who knows where he is, to contact the Police as soon as possible.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.
