Body Found Near Thames Identified as Missing Person

Key Takeaways

• A body has been recovered near Thames, believed to be a person who went missing in Coromandel waters two days ago
• The missing person was reported to have gotten into difficulties in the water near the Waikawau boat ramp on December 22
• Emergency services had been searching for the man, and one person had made it safely to shore while reporting that a second party was still in the water
• A formal identification of the body is yet to take place, but police believe it is the missing man
• The death is expected to be referred to the Coroner, and a rāhui has been placed on the area by local iwi

Introduction to the Incident
A tragic incident has occurred in Coromandel waters, where a body has been recovered near Thames, believed to be a person who went missing two days ago. According to Duty Inspector Neil Faulkner, police received reports of a body being located on the beach by a member of the public near Thames Coast Road, Kereta, at around 6:10 am on Wednesday. The discovery of the body has brought an end to the search efforts that had been underway since the person was reported missing on December 22.

The Search Efforts
Emergency services had been searching for the missing person after reports emerged of him getting into difficulties in the water near the Waikawau boat ramp. One person had managed to make it safely to shore, but reported that a second party was still in the water, prompting a search and rescue operation. The search efforts had been ongoing for two days, with police and other emergency services working tirelessly to locate the missing person. Unfortunately, the discovery of the body has confirmed the worst fears of the authorities and the family of the missing person.

Identification and Investigation
A formal identification of the body is yet to take place, but police believe it is the man who was reported missing on December 22. The police are working to confirm the identity of the body, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death is underway. The death is expected to be referred to the Coroner, who will conduct an independent investigation into the incident. The Coroner’s investigation will aim to determine the cause of death and make any necessary recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Cultural Significance and Response
The local iwi have placed a rāhui on the area, which is a traditional Māori practice of restricting access to a particular area or resource due to spiritual or cultural significance. The rāhui is a sign of respect for the deceased and their family, and it is also a way of acknowledging the cultural significance of the area. The placement of the rāhui is an important aspect of the response to the incident, as it recognizes the cultural values and traditions of the local community. The rāhui will remain in place until further notice, and it is expected that it will be lifted once the necessary cultural protocols have been observed.

Conclusion and Next Steps
The recovery of the body near Thames brings an end to the search efforts, but it also marks the beginning of a new phase of investigation and response. The police and other authorities will continue to work to determine the circumstances surrounding the death, and the Coroner’s investigation will provide a thorough and independent examination of the incident. The local community will also be coming to terms with the loss of a life, and the placement of the rāhui is an important part of the healing process. As the investigation continues, it is expected that more information will become available, and the community will be kept informed of any developments.