A veteran round-the-world sailor whose body was found in mangroves near Russell on Saturday morning is thought to have fallen from a dinghy while rowing out to his yacht.
Weather conditions were poor on Friday evening when 80-year-old Bill Sellers is believed to have been returning to his boat at Matauwhi Bay.
His body was found in mangroves at Uruti Bay early on Saturday morning by a member of the public.
Police were called and volunteers from the Russell Fire Brigade helped recover his body.
A celebration of Seller's life will be held at Russell Boating Club at Matauwhi Bay from 2pm this Saturday, September 14.
Family and friends are invited to come along and share their memories of the long-time Russell resident and sailing legend.