Uluwatu Beach, where the body of Jordan Lucas was found, is a top surf spot. Photo / Supplied
Did you know Jordon Lucas?
Email nzherald.co.nz
Friends of a New Zealand man found dead on a popular surf beach in Bali say they are shocked and devastated over the loss of such a "great guy".
Jordan Lucas' body was discovered at Uluwatu Beach on the southern coast of Bali by a fisherman.
Indonesia's police are reportedly
treating the 25-year-old's death as murder.
Reports in local media say his head was crushed, and he had injuries to his thighs.
No one who could speak English was available to comment from the police last night.
But the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is in close contact with Indonesian police, although spokesman Chris Wilson said last night that he could not confirm the cause of death.
A spokesman for the family, Robert Kirkwood, said Mr Lucas was an experienced traveller and surfer and "that deepens the mystery" of what happened to him.
He said Mr Lucas' parents, Julie and Graham Lucas, were expected to arrive in Bali late last night.
During a stopover they had sent a message saying: "Jordan loved Bali a lot and went there frequently for many winters."
Mr Kirkwood said Mr Lucas was an experienced and competent surfer who loved Bali.
"He was no bunny when it came to travelling. Bali, to Jordan, was a paradise. He loved it and he loved the Balinese people and he looked forward to going back there in the winters and he worked to save up for that time."
Mr Kirkwood told One News Mr Lucas was an "outdoorsey sort of guy" growing up. He lived with his parents on a farm and was a "typical Kiwi boy" who loved riding motorbikes.
"We're all shocked and devastated to hear about this tragic news. He's a great guy and he'll be missed terribly."
Mr Wilson said the ministry was providing assistance to Mr Lucas' family and someone would be there meet them when they arrived in Bali.
Surfing NZ chief executive Greg Townsend said Uluwatu Beach was world-renowned for its reef breaks.
Hundreds of Kiwis travelled to Bali each year for surfing. The reefs were dangerous, but they were not the worst around.
