30 Jan 2015

Body and vehicle found in Whanganui River

7:07 pm on 30 January 2015

A search for a man missing in the Pipiriki area has ended with the discovery of his body and his vehicle in the Whanganui River.

Police, Department of Conservation staff and search and rescue volunteers today launched a ground and river search for Hotene Koia, 86, who had been missing since Tuesday.

His body was found about 1:30pm.

Police said Mr Koia's vehicle had crashed down a bank into the river.

The death was referred to the Coroner.