New Zealand / Emergency Services

Man who died fishing at Lake Benmore named

12:15 pm on 3 March 2024
Lake Benmore in Central Otago.

Lake Benmore is popular for boating, swimming, walks and fishing. (File photo.) Photo: 123rf

Anthony Otworowski, 63, of Australia has been named as the person who died at Lake Benmore.

He went missing on 18 February while fishing at the artificial lake, 26km south of Twizel.

A helicopter with night vision capabilities was dispatched that evening, but failed to find him.

The next day, LandSAR teams from Omarama and Oamaru began searching the lake and the Ahuriri River.

They found Otworowski near the trail entrance to the carpark.

In a statement, police expressed their "condolences to the family at this difficult time".

They also thanked LandSAR and Coast Guard volunteers for their "dedication and professionalism", which meant Otworoski's body could be returned to his family.