Body on beach might be missing boatie

A body found off a Coromandel Peninsula beach last evening may be that of a boatie missing since last month.

Waikato Police Search and Rescue coordinator Constable Dave Pitchford said a member of the public rang 111 to report what looked like a body 200m off the shore in front of the Whiritoa Surf Life Saving Club about 5.25pm.

"With the assistance of the Whiritoa Surf Club and Whangamata Coastguard the body was recovered and taken to Waikato Hospital where forensic examinations will begin to help us identify who this person is," Mr Pitchford said.

Authorities were keeping an open mind about whether the body was that of Tim Mair, the 52-year-old Katikati man missing since his boat capsized off Bowentown on 28 January.

Mr Pitchford acknowledged the assistance provided by volunteer organisations during the search for Mr Mair.

"During the search we had lifeguards, volunteer firefighters and search and rescue staff as well as coastguard and mine rescue personnel all working to assist police," he said.

"Then last night, thanks to a call from the public a number of volunteers mobilised again to assist police in the body recovery. These often unsung heroes are repeatedly giving of their time to the benefit of their wider communities and from a police perspective their efforts are very appreciated."

 

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