Fisherman drowns near Whakatane

A man has drowned at beach near Whakatane trying to retrieve a fishing net at a swollen river mouth

Police say the 50-year-old from Rotorua was trying at Thornton Beach near the mouth of the Rangitaiki River.

Attempts were made to resuscitate him, but without success.

The incident happened just after 6.30pm last evening.

- NEWSTALK ZB