Update: Lake Moeraki search

Police divers have further investigated an object detected in Lake Moeraki today in the search for a Piper Cherokee Six aircraft that disappeared 47 years ago with seven people on board.

Unfortunately, there is no indication so far that the object is an aircraft.

Fine weather on Lake Moeraki aided the multi-agency search operation, led by Police, which got underway this morning.

Today the search operation included 17 personnel who assembled beside the lake by 8am and started the day with a karakia led by local iwi.

Family members of those who were on board the missing plane were also present, and they joined an early briefing. They have been kept up to date with the search as it has rolled out.

Following a blessing at the edge of the lake, Coastguard West Coast volunteers launched their boat into the water about 9.30am with Navy personnel on board. Despite a lot of rain overnight, the weather was settled today and the sun warmed family members as they watched the boat zig zag across the lake.

At about 12.30pm the weather turned, rain started to fall and thunder clapped. The sonar reports showed an object of interest and the dive squad was deployed to investigate it about 1pm.

Senior Sergeant Mark Kirkwood, who is in charge of the operation, says the object was worth looking at closely, but they are not confident it is an aircraft.

“After 47 years, we understand the significance of this moment for the families of the seven people who disappeared, some of whom are here today, and for everyone who has worked to find answers about what happened to them.

“We will take time tomorrow to have a closer look.”

The search operation will continue tomorrow and further analysis of sonar imaging will take place.

“We will continue to search other areas of the lake that we did not search today.”

Police continue to ask members of the public to keep clear of the operational area while the work continues.