Kaipara boating tragedy: Body of last fisherman found

The body of the last fisherman from the Kaipara boating tragedy has been found on Muriwai beach.

Police said the body was found by a fisherman at 6am today.

It is believed to be that of Taulagi "Lagi" Afamasaga, 56, who was missing since the tragedy on November 26. Formal identification is yet to take place.

Police have vistited Afamasaga's family this morning to convey the news.

"Our thoughts are with them at this sad time," they said in a statement.

The victims: Top row L-R: Skipper Bill McNatty; Sunia Onga' unga; Alipate Manumu'a; Aue Aria. Bottom row L-R: Tevita Tangi; Fonua Taufa; Fred Marsters; Taulagi Afamasaga

Locals reported a large police presence in the seaside community this morning.

Eight men died when the boat they were in during a fishing charter capsized on November 26. Three men survived.

The boat the men were on, the Francie has still not been found.

A funeral for one of the men, Fred Marsters is being held this morning at the Manukau Memorial Gardens Chapel in Papatoetoe.

The skipper of the boat, Bill McNatty, was farewelled last week.

- NZ Herald