Police have named the man who died after jumping into the water near Ōhope Beach on Christmas Day.
Whakatane man Hikato Maaka, 41, was found dead on Saturday night after he allegedly jumped into the harbour after officers responded to reports of a family harm-related incident on Christmas Day.
On Boxing Day Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander Inspector Nicky Cooney said officers had engaged with Maaka and attempted to get him to come out of the water but he refused, continuing to walk away from them.
“When the man started swimming further away and against the outgoing tide, members of the public who were nearby sourced paddleboards, kayaks and a boat and went to assist, but the man was not located,” police said.
Coastguard, rescue helicopters and police divers had joined the search.
Iwi placed a rāhui until further notice.
- Stuff