Group of people reported missing on Clarence River contact police

A group initially understood to have been missing on the Clarence River, north of Kaikōura, have told police they missed their return time.

Police said they received reports around 11.45pm yesterday that a group had missed their return time on a Clarence River trip.

But police say they have since received a report “indicating that the group are not overdue at this stage and are expected back later today”.

The Clarence River is a popular spot for whitewater rafting and other water pursuits.

It’s understood the group are not part of an organised tour.

Hidden Valleys Rafting owner Dylan Card said he is aware of the incident but believed it was a “private trip” and was not connected to any of the businesses that operate on the river.

Card said the river was open to the public.

Kaikōura Land Search and Rescue refused to comment when approached and referred further inquiries to police.

More to come.