A man died in a Christchurch swimming pool last night.
Victor Hemi Pikari, 56, of Waltham, Christchurch, died while swimming at the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre in Lyttelton Street, Somerfield.
Emergency services were called to the pool complex just before 5.25pm after reports that a man had become unwell while swimming.
Sergeant Todd Webley of Christchurch police said the man was reported to have been swimming in the lane pool, and had then moved to a smaller pool where witnesses said he got into difficulties.
Lifeguards removed Mr Pikari from the pool and attempted to resuscitate him. Ambulance staff also attempted CPR and used a defibrillator, but this was unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said initial enquiries indicated Mr Pikari had some background medical issues.
The death will be referred to the coroner.
