Body found in river

THE body of a man has been discovered in the Waikawa River in the Catlins.

Police issued a statement saying the man was first reported missing by a member of the public on Friday.

A spokeswoman said the man’s body was located close to Gourley Rd, near the Waikawa River, on Saturday.

"It is believed that the man had been whitebaiting in the area."

The death has been referred to the coroner.