Man drowns at Kerikeri swimming hole

A police officer interviews one of the man's companions at Charlie's Rock, a popular Kerikeri swimming hole. Photo / Peter de Graaf

A 20-year-old man has drowned while swimming at a popular waterhole in Kerikeri.

Police said the man and three friends had travelled to Charlie's Rock from Kaikohe about midday today.

They entered the water about 2.40pm. Friends noticed the man was missing a short time later.

The man's clothing was later found on the rocks.

Police were informed and divers recovered the man from the water about 6.40pm.

The man's whanau are at the scene and were receiving help from victim support. A local kaumatua has blessed the area.

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances and the matter will now be referred to the coroner.

Charlie's Rock is a popular swimming hole on the Waipapa River about five minutes up a track from Waipapa landing.

More details in tomorrow's Advocate.

- by NZME