Rahui In Place as Kayaker Search Continues

The search is continuing for the 25- year-old Waihi kayaker, Samuel McAlister, reported missing off Thames Coast Road, north of the Waikawau boat ramp on Monday.

Today a rahui has been placed on an area from the Otakeao Stream to the north bank of the Waikawau River – this by local iwi Ngati Tamatera. The Kereta and Waikawau boat ramps are not included in the rahui area.

Police have high visibility patrols along the Thames Coast Road today, search efforts are planned to continue over the weekend with tasks set for the Police Maritime Unit, Police Drone Team and Land Search and Rescue volunteers.

Police continue to ask anyone that comes across anything of interest in the area to contact us. Information can be provided to Police on 105 referencing file number 230912/1041.