Drowning in Canterbury District, 7:55pm

At about 5pm on 31/12/08 a male, aged in his 40's was swimming in the Hurunui River, near State Highway One, with family.

He was lost sight of and police were advised.

The Westpac Rescue helicopter was sent and 4 jet boats were organised.

The male was located just after 6pm approximately 1km downstream by a jet boat and was found to be deceased.

Victim support is being arranged for the family.