By Angela Beswick
Police have confirmed a 42-year-old male drowned this afternoon while netting at Port Waikato.
The Polynesian man was one of three people swept away. His body was later recovered but he was unable to be revived.
His two friends are missing, presumed drowned.
A large search involving the police Eagle helicopter, surf club members and the public was mounted this evening, however the pair have not been located.
Searching will resume at first light tomorrow.
Meanwhile an Asian man in his mid-20s drowned this afternoon while snorkelling at Goat Island, north of Auckland.
He was given CPR but was unable to be revived.
3 News