At about 4.12pm this afternoon Police were advised that a 57 year old male had not returned from the water at Te Puna Beach, Tauranga Harbour, Bay of Plenty.

An extensive search of the inner harbour was initiated which included boat, shoreline and helicopter searches.

At about 5.48 pm the body of the male was located by helicopter in the harbour and he was recovered by boat shortly afterwards.

Victim support are with the family of the deceased.

Police will be making no further comment about this incident.