The search has resumed for two net fishermen washed out to
sea south of Auckland yesterday.
Three men disappeared about 4pm from the beach at Port
Waikato where they were net-fishing in the surf.
One was found in the water shortly afterwards and surf
lifeguards' desperate attempts to revive him with CPR were
unsuccessful.
A police helicopter was expected to join the search for the
other two.
Sunset Beach Lifeguard president Malcolm Beattie was involved
in the search yesterday, and said the pair's family will be
anxiously waiting for any sign of the men, presumed drowned.
"It's just such a tragedy for the family because they will be
all there today waiting for signs of their loved ones. It's
very unpleasant,'' he told Radio New Zealand.
He said the remaining bodies should wash up within the next
48 hours.
"Normally there's a southerly drift, they'll come up on the
coastline regrettably ... History has shown this on many
occasions where we've been involved in this type of search
and body recovery.''
He said none of the men were wearing lifejackets, which was
common in the area.
"It is consistent with the number of fisherman that we pull
out in that area of the river and the estuary. They just do
not bother wearing any protection at all.''
Education and signs would not make a difference.
"The reality is that people will still go down there and they
do get themselves in very dangerous situations.''
Meanwhile, a 25-year-old Chinese man drowned while
snorkelling at popular marine reserve Goat Island, north of
Auckland, about 3.45pm yesterday.
Westpac Rescue helicopter advanced paramedic Chris Deacon
said the man's body was spotted underwater by crew on board a
glass bottomed boat.
One of them dived into the water and got him out and first
aid was administered.
An ambulance arrived from Warkworth and continued CPR, as did
helicopter paramedics, but the man did not respond.
"They gave it their best shot and everything was tried but
unfortunately when you're getting CPR your life is hanging in
the balance and unfortunately the scales tipped the wrong
way. It's very sad, he's a young man.''
Mr Ford said the number of drownings in New Zealand this year
was of great concern.
"Already, more people have drowned this year so far than did
all of last year. It's worrying.''
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