Royal NZ Navy to assist in search for missing NZDF soilder in Waiouru

The Royal New Zealand Navy Operational Dive Team with sonar equipment are to be deployed in Waiouru to aid in the search for a New Zealand Defence Force soldier who went missing on Lake Moawhango early last night.

Police and other emergency services were called to Lake Moawhango around 5:40pm last night, after a soldier in his late 20's fell overboard from an inflatable boat whilst on a training exercise.

Ruapehu Area Commander Inspector Steve Mastrovich says the Police National Dive Squad was deployed to Waiouru last night, however given the depth of Lake Moawhango, they are only able to conduct a shallow search around the shoreline of the lake, which is currently underway.

"We have sought the assistance of Navy divers and the use of their sonar equipment. It is expected that the Royal New Zealand Navy will arrive in Waiouru later this afternoon to assist in the search. An aerial search is currently underway involving a Taumarunui-based company (Fly My Sky)."

A further update on the search will be issued later this afternoon.