The missing boat was found shortly after midnight at in Safe Cove on Lake Manapouri Photo:
One man was found dead and another was seriously injured when police located a boat that had failed to return from a fishing trip on Lake Manapouri overnight.
Southern Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman said police are investigating what happened before the pair was discovered.
He said the alarm was raised about 7:20pm on Sunday night, when two experienced fishers failed to return from a fishing trip on the lake, and also failed to check in on the radio.
Bowman said a local helicopter was used to search for the boat, and it was found with the two men on board about 12:30am in Safe Cove.
"One was deceased, and the other was in serious condition and treated at hospital where he is recovering well," said Bowman.
Bowman said enquiries will be made by police on behalf of the coroner.
"Police's sincere condolences go out to their family and loved ones."
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