Southland businessman Rick Murrell dies after Lake Manapouri fishing trip

Southland KIA owner Rick Murrell has died following a fishing accident on Lake Manapouri. Photo / Southland Business Chamber

Invercargill businessman Rick Murrell has died after a Lake Manapouri fishing trip in Fiordland National Park.

Southland area commander Inspector Mike Bowman said police were notified about 7.20pm on Sunday after two fishermen failed to return from a trip and also failed to check in on the radio.

“Marine radios were utilised and area enquiries were made, and a local helicopter was utilised to search for the boat,” he said.

The helicopter found the boat about 12.30am in Safe Cove with the two men on board.

One man was dead and another in a serious condition.

The Herald understands the man who died was Rick Murrell, 60, a prominent Invercargill businessman.

The surviving fisherman is “recovering well” in hospital, Bowman said.

Police are investigating on behalf of the coroner.

“Police’s sincere condolences go out to their family and loved ones.”