Body found after search for person swept away in Boyle River, Hurunui District

A body has been found after emergency services were called to Lewis Pass Rd after someone was feared to have been swept away in the Boyle River.

A body has been found in the Boyle River in Hurunui, Canterbury, after a person was feared to have been swept away this afternoon.

A police spokesperson said officers were notified about 3.15pm that a helicopter aiding in the search had located a body.

“While the formal identification process is yet to be completed, it is believed to be the man who was swept into the river earlier this afternoon.”

Emergency services were called to Lewis Pass Rd about 2pm after concerns that someone may have been swept into the river.

A Search and Rescue team co-ordinated the response and a helicopter was deployed to the area.

Hato Hone St John said crews were notified of an incident at 2pm near the Boyle River Bridge at Lewis Pass Rd, Hurunui.

One helicopter, one first response unit, one ambulance and one operations manager were dispatched.

Hato Hone St John referred the Herald to police for further information.

A MetService forecaster said yesterday’s heavy rain had cleared off the east of the South Island, leaving calm weather today.

“I imagine the heavy rain may have left swollen rivers in the area.”