Waimakariri body believed to be missing swimmer

The body was located in the river near Kairaki by a member of the public yesterday. Image: Google Maps

Police believe a body found in the Waimakariri River is that of a swimmer missing since before Christmas.

The body of a young man was located in the river near Kairaki in Christchurch about 3.30pm yesterday by a member of the public.

"While formal identification is yet to take place, it is believed to be that of an 18-year-old missing in the river since December 22," police said in a statement this morning.

Police thanked everyone who helped with the search and said the family had requested privacy.

The death has been referred to the coroner.

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