A fishing boat with three men onboard rolled over in heavy seas near the Greymouth river mouth as it was returning to port about 7.30am today.
Police, coastguard, the rescue helicopter, another fishing vessel and members of the public were all involved in the rescue of the crew of the Lady Anna.
Two of the fishermen managed to cling to a floatation device and made it to shore on the Cobden Tiphead about 7.50am.
The third man's body was recovered from the sea by Police about 8am.
The two survivors have been taken to Grey Base Hospital for assessment.
The fishing vessel Lady Anna has drifted about 25 metres up the Grey River and is fully submerged.
Conditions at the time were very rough, with large waves and a strong wind.
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Media Briefing:
Acting Senior Sergeant Russell Glue will hold a short media briefing at the Greymouth Police Station at 11am today.
Media enquiries to Tasman Police Communications Manager Barbara Dunn, Ph 0274 780853