A Pukekohe man is feared drowned today after jumping in the flood-swollen Wairoa River at McLaren Falls near Tauranga yesterday.
Tauranga's search and rescue team, assisted by local kayakers, divers and rafters, have headed to the river today to continue searching for 22-year-old Stacy Brewster.
Sergeant Dave Thompson said today
Mr Brewster jumped about 6 metres into the river from just below the bridge about 6pm yesterday.
He was watched by two friends and had intended swimming to the other side of the river but failed to surface.
Three kayakers also saw him jump and searched the river for him without success.
Police and fire service searched until 10pm last night but found no sign of him.
Mr Thompson said it was "almost 100 percent certain" Mr Brewster had become trapped under water and drowned.
Divers have been searching river eddies this morning, assisted by rafters. Kayakers are also helping to seach the river bank.
Searchers have been combing the river's banks for any signs of Mr Brewster.
Heavy rainfall over the past few days from Cylone Sose has pushed rivers in the catchment to flood levels.
- BAY OF PLENTY TIMES
