Search for Mr Afamasaga
The search for Mr Afamasaga continues today. Search and rescue officers searched on quadbikes in the early hours of this morning during low tide, to conduct a search of the northern tip of South Head. The Police Eagle Helicopter is conducting further aerial sweeps this afternoon of the shoreline south and north of Kaipara Heads.
Police Maritime Specialists are continuing to review the options available to assist with the search for the missing “Francie”.
Family of Mr Alipate Manumua and Mr Sunia Ungounga
A number of approaches have been made to the family members of Mr Manumua and Mr Ungounga. Spokespeople for both families have advised their Police family liaison officer that they do not want to do any media interviews at the moment and will not be in a position to reconsider this for at least a week.
Survivors
A number of media have asked whether the survivors would like to share their story publicly. Police have put these requests to the survivors, who have advised that they would like to be left alone, and that they want to be able to grieve for their friends in private.
ENDS
Beth Bates/NZ Police