​Statement from Tony Gibson, Ports of Auckland CEO:

Ports of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson has confirmed that one of the company’s pilot boats is under investigation in relation to the death of a swimmer off Auckland’s North Shore.

At this stage the exact circumstances are not clear, but we are co-operating fully with the police to help them to determine what happened.

Mr Gibson said “I am extremely upset that one of our pilot boats may have been involved in the death of a swimmer. I understand the pain this will have caused and I offer the family and friends of the swimmer my deepest sympathies for their tragic loss.”

“Ports of Auckland will be co-operating fully with the authorities as this investigation continues.

Until the investigation concludes, I am not able to make any further comment.”

ENDS

For further information contact:

Matt Ball

Head of Communications

P: +649 348 5262

M: +6421 495 645