A young Kaitia child has died after being found in the Awanui River this afternoon.
The child was reported missing from their Kaitaia home about 3.40pm. A search involving whānau and emergency services began immediately.
Searchers located the child shortly before 5pm.
“Despite the best efforts of rescuers, the child passed away,” police said in a statement.
“This is an absolutely tragic outcome and support is being provided to whānau.”
Police would like to thank everyone who assisted in the search.
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