DNA may be the only way to identify a decomposed body found at a dangerous west Auckland surf beach last Friday.
The body may be that of Unitec student Rhyan Rego, 21, who went missing at Muriwai Beach earlier this month.
A post-mortem examination had been carried out and dental
records did not prove conclusive, said Detective Sergeant Roger Small, of Orewa police.
"The body had been in the water for quite some time, so we'll have to go down the DNA route which could take between one and four weeks," he said.
Mr Rego was last seen paddling in shallow water at Muriwai Beach on April 7. He was usually reluctant to go into the water as he could not swim.
Rhyan's father, Vincent, told NZPA today that despite no confirmation of identity, the family was prepared to wait.
"We've already waited for three weeks so we're prepared to wait another three weeks if that's what it takes. The police are doing what they can, and we just want to give them space to do their job," he said.
Mr Rego was contacted by police last weekend, who informed him that a body had been found at South Head, north of Muriwai Beach.
"We're just waiting and bracing ourselves for whatever is to come. The past few weeks has given us time to absorb what's happened," he said.
His mother Ernestine told NZPA today the police would not reveal the identity of the body until they were 100 per cent sure.
"They're still carrying out tests, and then they will let us know. We just want to know either way," she said.
- NZPA
