A man has drowned in the Rangitkei River nears Bulls after getting into trouble just metres from the shore.

The tragedy happened around 3.25pm (Tuesday, 19 January) when the 19-year-old from Bulls went into the river with a small rubber tube to float down on the current. It appears that he got caught on a submerged log and was pulled under.

Two female friends and an 11-year-old girl were in the river with him. They went to help him along with another group of people who were by the river. Although they managed to free him from the log attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

Police, Fire and St John attended and staff from all the services gave CPR.

The man will not be named until all next of kin have been informed. The death has been referred to the Coroner.

Police want to take the opportunity to remind people to be extra careful around rivers. Today's tragedy happened just five to six metres from shore and demonstrates the hidden dangers that can lie under the surface.