Body of missing diver found after failing to return from Karaka Bay

Emergency services at Karaka Bays this morning. Photo / NZ Herald

The body of a diver who failed to return from Karaka Bay last night has been found.

A police spokesperson confirmed the body was located shortly before 8am this morning.

“Police are working to support the diver’s family.”

Local resident Stella Newman told NZME the diver’s family had been out all night looking for him, and were present when the man’s body was retrieved from the water.

“They were all around while ambulance staff checked him over and confirmed he had passed away.”

Newman said her heart goes out to the diver’s family.

“It’s very, very sad I think. It’s a relief they’ve found him but yeah it’s not good at all, very sad for the family.”

Emergency services were at the bay this morning and a helicopter was seen circling overhead.

Police were called at 6pm last night after the diver failed to return after free-diving.

A helicopter circles Karaka Bay. Photo / Supplied

Police staff including the Maritime Unit and Police National Dive Squad, as well as Coastguard, Surf Lifesaving and a helicopter were deployed to search the wider area.

Neighbours to the bay left out coffee in support of those searching for the missing diver.

Coffee for the search party at Karaka Bay. Photo / NZ Herald