Search resumes for man missing in lake

Nelson Lakes National Park. Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

A search resumed this morning for an Australian visitor who went missing on Lake Rotoroa, in Nelson Lakes National Park yesterday, after jumping off his boat and trying to swim tho shore.

The man, aged 27 and recently arrived in New Zealand, was one of three people on a small vessel on the lake when he dived overboard about 55m to 100m from shore yesterday, said Senior Sergeant John Maxwell of Nelson Bays Search and Rescue.

His companions continued to shore, from where they could see their friend who seemed fine in the water.

However, his friends were about to head back out onto the lake when he disappeared.

The man went missing near Maori Stream about 4.45pm, and police were alerted after a personal locator beacon was set off an hour later.

He was of slim build, and wearing jeans but no top or shoes, so hypothermia was a concern, police said.

The lake and shore was searched extensively yesterday by search and rescue volunteers, police, Department of Conservation staff and locals, and a rescue helicopter was also involved.

- NZPA