Missing boatie's family told of find

A forensic examination is underway following the discovery of a body in ocean off the Coromandel coast last night.

Relatives of missing Katikati man Tim Mair, 52, have been informed about the find, though police say they are "keeping an open mind" as to the person's identity.

Mr Mair went missing after his boat capsized off Bowentown on January 28 - four others, including Mr Mair's 7-year-old grandson were later rescued from Matakana Island.

Waikato Police Search and Rescue coordinator, Constable Dave Pitchford, said a member of the public rang 111 to report what looked like a body 200m off the shore in front off the Surf Life Saving Club at Whiritoa at 5.25pm yesterday.

 "With the assistance of the Whiritoa Surf Club and Whangamata Coastguard the body was recovered and taken to Waikato Hospital where forensic examinations will begin to help us identify who this person is.

Mr Pitchford said while these lengthy examinations were going on it was important to acknowledge the assistance provided once again by volunteer organisations.

"During the search [for Mr Mair] we had lifeguards, volunteer fire-fighters and search and rescue staff as well as Coastguard and mine rescue personnel all working to assist Police in the search.

Mr Pitchford said those organisations together with the public who had been involved in the search were the "unsung heroes" who repeatedly gave their time to benefit the wider community.

- © Fairfax NZ News