Key Takeaways
- A body believed to be that of a missing jet skier has been found at Port Waikato
- The body was discovered by a police helicopter a day and a half after the incident
- A five-year-old child was rescued from the water on Christmas Day after getting into difficulty
- The incident occurred near the Waikato River Mouth, south of Auckland
- The matter has been referred to the coroner
Introduction to the Incident
A tragic incident occurred on Christmas Day at Port Waikato, where a man went missing while jet skiing. The incident happened near the Waikato River Mouth, a popular spot for water sports and activities. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 6:25 pm, and a rescue operation was launched to locate the missing man and assist those in difficulty. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of the rescue teams, the man could not be found, and his body was only discovered a day and a half later.
Rescue Efforts
The rescue operation involved multiple agencies, including the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter, surf lifeguards from Sunset Beach Lifeguard Service, and Surf Lifesaving Kariaotahi. The teams worked together to search for the missing man and assist those in distress. A five-year-old child was rescued from the water and was thankfully safe. The extensive grid search by the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter covered a large area, but unfortunately, the missing man could not be located before the search was concluded at 8 pm on Wednesday.
Discovery of the Body
A police helicopter discovered the body believed to be that of the missing man earlier in the morning, a day and a half after the incident. The police have confirmed that the body has been found, and the matter has been referred to the coroner. The police have also expressed their deepest sympathies to the man’s family, who are going through an extremely difficult time. The discovery of the body brings a sense of closure to the family, but it is also a tragic reminder of the dangers of water sports and the importance of safety precautions.
Response and Investigation
The police have launched an investigation into the incident, and the matter has been referred to the coroner. The coroner’s investigation will aim to determine the cause of death and the circumstances surrounding the incident. The police have also appealed to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any information to come forward. The investigation will be thorough, and the police will work to piece together the events leading up to the incident.
Conclusion and Condolences
The incident at Port Waikato is a tragic reminder of the importance of water safety and the need for precautions when engaging in water sports. The loss of life is a devastating blow to the family and loved ones of the missing man, and the community comes together to offer their condolences. The police and emergency services have done an excellent job in responding to the incident, and their efforts are appreciated. As the investigation continues, the community will be waiting for the outcome and hoping that the incident will serve as a reminder of the importance of safety on the water. The thoughts and sympathies of the community are with the family of the missing man during this difficult time.