Further shoreline and marine searches underway today off New Plymouth

Another shoreline and marine search is underway in New Plymouth for the trio missing since Wednesday afternoon.

Incident Controller Inspector Frank Grant says a smaller group of searchers are completing a further shoreline search today, covering an area from Tapawai to Bell Block.

"We have Taranaki Surf Lifesaving inflatable rescue boats (IRBs) out on the water again today. Police staff in kayaks are also searching near the Port area. However, at this time, we have still not yet recovered the bodies of Bryce Jourdain, Stephen Kahukaka-Gedye or Felipe Melo."

A further aerial search was also carried out late yesterday afternoon.

"We are assessing the situation daily and are doing all we can to bring the bodies of Bryce, Stephen and Felipe home. We're continuing to provide support and assistance to the families at this tragic time."

ENDS

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