SAR Punga Cove, Marlborough

At 3.40 PM a Search and Rescue Operation commenced in the Marlborough Queen Charlotte Sound when an inflatable rubber dingy was located on the shore near Punga Cove.

No person could be located.

An extensive search was conducted by Police, Coast Guard, and several sounds locals.

At about 6.30 PM the body of a 29 year old male was located in the water approximately one kilometre from Furneaux Lodge by a searching helicopter.

An investigation into the cause of the tragic incident is ongoing.

The identity of the male is known but next of kin are still to be advised.