The body of an Australian tourist who went missing while
swimming in the Waikato River last night has been found.
Melbourne man Mathew Slade, 21, got into trouble while
swimming near the Full James Rapid downstream from the
Aratiatia Dam at about 6.15pm.
Police said he called for help, but when a female companion
arrived at the riverbank the man had disappeared.
The police national dive team discovered his body about 2pm
in the river close to where he was last seen.
Mr Slade's parents flew to New Zealand this morning and had
been staying close to the scene waiting for news, police
said.
Mr Slade had been in New Zealand since December 22 and was
planning on staying until March to train and ride ponies for
the World Championships of the Equestrian Mounted Games.
He had represented Australia in the sport and was gearing up
to compete in a pairs event this weekend.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.