Fisherman drowns while checking nets

A Wellington man has drowned after swimming out to check fishing nets off the Kapiti Coast.

The 68-year-old apparently got into trouble about 50 metres off Raumati Beach. A friend who was on the beach at the time raised the alarm and the man's body was found when the Coastguard and Westpac Rescue Helicopter were deployed.

Police say the man was wearing a wet suit at the time.

- NEWSTALK ZB