A search and rescue operation is underway after a rafter was reported missing on the Ahaura River inland from Greymouth yesterday.
Police divers are heading to the area to help with the search. File photo Photo: RNZ
A man fell from a raft just after midday, but the alarm could not be raised until later as the area is a communication blackspot with police receiving a report just before 5.30pm yesterday.
A search operation started at about 7am today involving 17 people from police, LandSAR and volunteers.
Three teams have been out searching the riverbanks, a jet boat is searching the river and a helicopter is searching from the air.
The Police National Dive Squad is heading to the area to help with the search.