Manawatū River search for missing man ends, police continue sweeps of area

A rescue operation for a man who disappeared in the Manawatū River has been scaled back.

After two days of “extensive” searching of the river and surrounding waters, police have moved to a “limited search phase”.

Police were called to Albert St, Palmerston North at 11.20pm on Tuesday, after reports personal items were abandoned in a suspicious manner.

The search led officers down to the Manawatū River where a man was seen in the water.

The man left personal belongings at Albert St before entering the Manawatū River. Photo / Google Maps

Palmerston North area prevention manager Inspector Phil Ward said officers appealed to the man to come back to land, however, he disappeared under the water’s surface.

Due to the rough terrain of the river and limited visibility, emergency services were stood down about 1.30am, with a full rescue attempt underway at first light.

The operation has now moved to a “limited search phase”.

Ward said the decision was made after extensive searches of the river, Foxton estuary and surrounding areas.

“Police will continue to conduct drone sweeps of areas of interest, and patrols along Foxton Beach,” he said.

“Police thank Land Search and Rescue, Police Search and Rescue, Palmerston North Swiftwater Rescue, regional response teams, Coastguard Manawatū, and everyone else involved in the search operation.”

Police continue to provide support to the man’s family.