Zimbabwean tourist's body found on beach

The body of a Zimbabwean tourist who was caught in a rip when swimming at a Mount Maunganui beach on Friday has been found.

Ratidzo Moyo, a 19-year-old Zimbabwean who lived in London, went missing when swimming with friends about 5pm on Friday.

Senior Sergeant Carl Purcell of Tauranga Police said Mr Moyo's body was seen by a member of the public washed up on the beach and he was found there shortly afterwards by police and surf club members about 7.30am today.

Mr Moyo's body will be shipped to Britain following arrangements made through the British Consulate.

Mr Moyo's friends also got in trouble on Friday night but were rescued by surfers, some reportedly as young as 10.

- NZPA