Body found on Christchurch beach identified

Graeme Brian Guerin's body was found on Sunday 200m south of New Brighton Pier.

The identity of a man found dead on a Christchurch beach at the weekend has been confirmed by police.

Graeme Brian Guerin, 57, who lived alone in the Edgeware suburb of the city, was reported missing by his family last night.

His body was found by early morning walkers on Sunday, 200m south of New Brighton Pier.

The death has been referred to the coroner but police say they are "still piecing together the events prior to Graeme being found on the beach".

"While the information we received did not lead to the man being identified, we would like to thank the people who contacted us," Detective Sergeant Nicola Reeves said.

His family are being supported by police, Victim Support and close friends and family.

"A post-mortem has been completed and police are not treating his death as suspicious," Ms Reeves said.

A spokesperson from Mr Guerin's family said: "We are still in shock. It doesn't seem real and we are still getting to grips with the news that Graeme has gone.

"He was an active man and enjoyed visiting the New Brighton beach area.

"We would like to thank the members of the public who found him and police for their support and compassion."

Anyone who saw Mr Guerin on Sunday is asked to contact police on 03 363 7400 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.