Body found in search for man missing in the Manawatū River

The army has paid tribute to soldier who was swept away in the Manawatū River as talented and highly respected.

Gunner Nikau Minhinnick Gill died trying to rescue his dog from the river, Chief of Army Major General Rose King said.

King said he was a talented young man, and a "highly respected member of 16th Field Regiment's 161 Battery in Linton".

"In what was a tragic accident on Saturday, he entered the Manawatū River in an attempt to rescue his dog and was swept away," King said.

Gill had been walking the dog at Ahimate Park. The dog was later found.

A search involved police national dive squad, a Swift water rescue boat, kayaks, drones, and a helicopter. Numerous volunteers including the missing man's Defence Force colleagues took part.

Inspector Ashley Gurney said the body was found on Wednesday evening.

"While located deceased yesterday evening, police are pleased to have been able to reunite the man with his family," he said. Police extend our condolences to the man's family and friends during this difficult time and are being provided with support."

Gill joined the army in March 2021 and then the 16th Field Regiment in June the same year, the army said.

Commanding Officer 16th Field Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Brent Morris, said he was an outstanding young man and a valued member of both the regiment and Ngāti Tūmatauenga.

He was awarded the Covid-19 Response Recognition Award in September 2021 and the New Zealand Defence Service Medal Regular Clasp in March 2024.

He was also awarded a United States Army Achievement Medal in December 2023 for his performance at the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Centre.

"I would like to thank the New Zealand Police and other agencies, as well as members of 1st (New Zealand) Brigade ​who volunteered their time and resources as part of the search efforts. It is never an easy task to do, let alone when the person you're looking for is one of your own," King said .

Police said the death was not believed to be suspicious and had been referred to the Coroner.

Rangitāne iwi has placed a rāhui on Manawatū River, between where the Turitea Stream enters the Manawatū River and where the Oroua River enters the Manawatū River at Puketotara. The rāhui was in place until further notice.

In the summer of 2021/22 four people drowned at Ahimate Reserve within a week, prompting Palmerston North City Council to install signs warning against swimming at the once popular spot.