As stated by Inspector Nicky Cooney, Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander:
An operation is underway to locate a man who is unaccounted for following a water-related incident in Opotiki.
Police were called to the Waioeka River at around 5.30pm yesterday after a report that a man had fallen off his boat and was swept downstream.
Emergency services carried out an initial search of the area and located the vessel nearby.
A rescue helicopter and private helicopters were also engaged in the search, as well as local jet boat operators.
Sadly, at this stage, the man remains outstanding.
Today, Police continue to search for the man in the Waioeka River, near the junction with Waiata Stream.
Police will be using land-based and water-based resources, alongside a Police drone to carry out aerial searches.
We continue to support the man's family at this difficult time.
