A body discovered near Ōhope Beach is believed to be that of a man who evaded police on Christmas Day. Police are conducting formal identification procedures after the body was found overnight near the harbour entrance. The incident unfolded when police responded to a family harm case at Ōhope Beach. Upon their arrival, a 48-year-old man from Whakatāne entered the harbour and refused to return, swimming towards the outgoing tide. Despite efforts from the public using paddleboards, kayaks, and a boat, and the deployment of the National Dive Squad, Coastguard, and rescue helicopters, the man remained unaccounted for. The incident has been referred to the Coroner for further investigation.
