One of the three men who died on a fishing trip on Lake Tekapo last month was probably run over by the boat after it hit a submerged object, a coroner has ruled.
Alexander Younger Haywood, 72, his son Antony Haywood, 46, and friend Murray Green, 54, did not return from an expedition on the lake on October 21.
Their submerged boat was found on a sandbank on the western shores four hours after they were reported missing, and Mr Haywood's body was found three nautical miles away.
The bodies of the other two men have not been recovered.
The Timaru Herald reported that coroner Richard McElrea said he had decided to open the inquest early because the pathologist's findings into Mr Haywood's death could help police and Maritime New Zealand with their investigations into what happened.
Pathologist Bryan Berkeley told the hearing all Mr Haywood's ribs were broken and he had extensive bruising consistent with the bow of the boat having ridden over him.
Mr McElrea found the cause of death to be asphyxia. He said he was satisfied the other two men had died.
The inquests were then adjourned until the police and Maritime New Zealand complete their investigations.
- NZPA
Fisherman likely run over by boat - coroner
The trio's submerged fishing boat was found near the Cass River delta. Photo / Supplied
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