A body believed to be that of missing 21-year-old French national Antoine Richard has been found in Lake Dunstan, police say.
Police were notified of the discovery about 2.35pm today by a member of the public, near Cornish Point, a spokesman confirmed to the Otago Daily Times this afternoon.
‘‘While the formal identification process is yet to be completed, it is believed to be the 21-year-old man reported missing from Cromwell.
‘‘The death will be referred to the Coroner.’’
Richard was reported missing in Cromwell last weekend.
He was last seen on March 2 at the Victoria Arms Hotel, about 11:45pm.
The spokesman said the community support and search efforts were ‘‘extremely appreciated’’.
‘‘Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.’’
Earlier, his family appealed for more help in the search.
A statement issued by police on behalf of the family this morning said: "An enormous amount of work has already been carried out by the police, the Search and Rescue team, Carrick winery where he worked, his friends, the Cromwell Rugby Team, local residents, and everyone who has taken part in the search.
"We are infinitely grateful to them."
The family, Hervé, Marithé, Claudine, Elise, Noémie, Valentin and Corentin Richard, said they were asking for people's help.
"We have been devastated with worry since we heard the news," the family said.
"We are writing on behalf of his entire family, his friends, his colleagues in France and New Zealand, and all the people he loves, in the hope of finding him as soon as possible."
Detective Phill Hamlin said searches had been conducted by LandSAR members from throughout the Otago and Southland area, police, Coastguard and many members of the community.
- RNZ/Allied Media
