Port Waikato jetski incident: Body found during search for missing man

Search and rescue teams were scouring the area yesterday, looking for the missing man. Photo / Supplied

A body has been found during the search for a man who went missing while jetskiing in Port Waikato on Christmas Day.

The man disappeared after three people got into trouble near the sandbar at the Waikato River mouth at 6.30pm on Thursday.

Police units, including an Eagle helicopter, assisted Surf Life Saving New Zealand members with the initial search.

Two people, including a 5-year-old child, were rescued but one person could not be found.

The search resumed this morning, with the Police Eagle finding a body at Port Waikato.

It is believed to be the man who went missing while jetskiing on Christmas Day.

Police will be referring the matter to the coroner.

A rāhui has been placed over Port Waikato and surrounding areas until 8pm today by the people of Te Pūaha o Waikato.

It affects Sunset Beach and the Waikato River from Port Waikato to Kariotahi Beach.

Coastguard NZ earlier said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the missing individual. We will continue to support police in the search over the coming days.

“A special acknowledgment to all our volunteers and staff who responded to this incident, as well as others across the motu this Christmas. Thank you for your sacrifice and dedication to helping others on the water.”