Search continues for man swept away in river

The Clutha River near Tarras. File photo / Stephen Russell

Police divers will today join the search for a missing man thought to have been swept away in a river in Central Otago.

The man, from Roxburgh, 44km southeast of Alexandra, went to the Clutha River near the Talla Burn power station to collect water samples about 12.30pm yesterday but did not return.

Police from Alexandra, Roxburgh and Balclutha, Clyde Coastguard, local search and rescue staff, helicopters and family members began searching for the man yesterday and resumed scouring the area today.

Alexandra Sergeant Ian Kerrisk told NZPA the police's national dive squad was making its way to the area to take part in the search.

"At the moment it is still a search and rescue operation but obviously as time goes on the grave fears we hold for the man continue to increase," he said.

Mr Kerrisk said an earlier media report of the man's name was incorrect.

It's believed the man fell into a creek after he had gone to check the water level and water quality.

His name is expected to be released this afternoon.

- NZPA