Body believed to be missing swimmer found at Piha, West Auckland

Tuesday, 8 January 2019

A body, believed to be that of missing 16-year-old swimmer Leka Pasiaka, has been recovered on a West Auckland beach.

It was discovered north of Piha Beach on Monday evening after being spotted by the police Eagle helicopter.

Pasiaka disappeared in the water off Whatipu Beach on December 29, 2018, while searching for mussels.

He had been at the beach with family members when the alarm was raised after he got caught in a rip tide.

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Two other people, who got pulled out to sea with Leka, made it back to shore safely. One was taken to hospital for observation.

His family had been keeping vigil on the shore everyday since he was swept away.

A Huia resident said it was not recommended for people to swim at Whatipu beach due to the wild nature of the waves.

The beach has signs warning of strong rips and currents, stating: 'Swimming not advised.'

Inspector Gerry Whitley, Relieving Area Commander for Waitematä West, said a post mortem examination and formal identification would now be carried out.