The wife of an Auckland man who drowned in a lake while trying to retrieve his dog from the water watched in horror as bystanders tried desperately to save him.
Peter Lewis, 59, died late on Saturday afternoon following what his family say was a tragic accident. Mr Lewis and his wife, Ruth, had been walking their dog on Colonial Rd, near the Chelsea Sugar Refinery in Birkenhead, when their pet began chasing some birds.
The refinery is situated on the north side of the Waitemata Harbour and is a popular spot with pet owners.
Police yesterday said that the dog entered the water and when it did not respond to commands to come back in, Mr Lewis went in after it.
Police also said that he may have entered the lake to help the animal, who was apparently being attacked by swans.