Dead body found in Northland harbour believed to be elderly missing man

Wednesday, 21 July 2021

Northland police have found a body in their search for missing Whangaroa man, Charles Strange.

The body was located near Whangaroa Marina on Monday night by Search and Rescue teams, along with the Police Dive Squad.

While formal identification is yet to be carried out, police believe the body to be 95-year-old Strange, who was reported to police as missing on Sunday.

The picturesque Whangaroa Harbour was a favourite place for missing man Charles Strange, 95. (File photo)

The sailor, known as Chaz, was last seen on Wednesday in the marina area.

**READ MORE:

Charles “Chaz” Strange was reported missing from Whangaroa Marina on Sunday, and police found a body in their search on Monday evening.

* Election 2020: Politicians put aside differences to plant seed of hope in north

* Early Pākehā settler graves rescued from Northland slip, re-interred on new site

* The boat that rocked domestic tourism: How a Bay of Islands cruise has stayed afloat

A police spokesman said Strange’s family has been notified.

“Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”

On social media, Strange, was recognised for being a Whangaroa “local legend”, with friends paying tribute to his friendly talks, amazing poetry and writing, as well as his humbleness.

Nga hapu o Karangahape placed a rāhui (ritual prohibition) on part of the Whangaroa Harbour, banning the taking of shellfish or fish, until Thursday morning.

Police said Strange’s death will be referred to the coroner.