Body Found in Search for Missing Whanganui Swimmer Whanganui, New Zealand – A body has been found in the search for a missing swimmer who disappeared in the Whanganui River last week. Police confirmed on Sunday that the body of 19-year-old Ethan Puautua was located near the mouth of the river. Puautua had been swimming at the popular Durie Hill swimming holes with friends on Thursday when he failed to resurface. An extensive search operation involving the police, Coastguard, and Land Search and Rescue volunteers was launched immediately. The discovery of the body brings a tragic end to the search efforts. Police said the circumstances surrounding Puautua’s death are not yet clear and an investigation is underway. Puautua’s whānau (family) has been informed of the sad news. Whanganui Mayor Hamish McDouall expressed his condolences to the family, saying the community is deeply saddened by the loss. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ethan’s whānau at this difficult time,” McDouall said. “We are very grateful to the emergency services personnel who worked tirelessly in the search operation.” The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety. While the Whanganui River is a popular spot for swimming and recreation, it can also be dangerous. Swimmers are advised to be aware of the river’s currents and to take precautions, such as wearing a life jacket.Body Found in Search for Missing Swimmer in Whanganui RiverBody Found in Search for Missing Swimmer in Whanganui River Police have located and retrieved the body of a man who went missing while swimming in the Whanganui River. Emergency services were called to Anzac Parade near the Dublin Street bridge at around 8:20am on Thursday after a shirtless man was observed entering the river but failed to resurface. On Thursday afternoon, police announced that a dive team had discovered the man’s body around 2 p.m. “The death is not believed to be suspicious and has been referred to the coroner,” police stated. As a result of the incident, a rāhui (temporary restriction) has been implemented on the Whanganui River from the footbridge at Upokongaro to the river’s mouth where it meets the sea.Police have recovered the body of a swimmer who went missing in the Whanganui River on Saturday. The body was found on Sunday morning by search and rescue teams. The swimmer, a 22-year-old man, was swimming with friends when he disappeared. Police said the man’s death is not being treated as suspicious.