A Christchurch man drowned on Christmas Day while snorkelling in Te Awaiti Bay, near Tory Channel in the Marlborough Sounds.
The 53-year-old man got into difficulty about 7pm when he became tangled in kelp about 20 metres from the shore.
A family member went to his assistance but was unable to save him.
The man was holidaying with family in the area. His name will not be released until next of kin have been notified.
3 News