Police confirm body found near New Plymouth Port

Taranaki Police have confirmed the body found at the power station near the Port in New Plymouth yesterday is that of 17-year-old Felipe Melo.

The Brazilian student was one of the three people missing after being swept from Paritutu Rock 12 days ago.

The bodies of 17-year-old Stephen Kahukaka-Geyde and instructor Bryce Jourdain have still not been found.

Inspector Frank Grant says searches of the Port this morning from the air and by kayak have failed to find any sign of the pair.

He says they're determined to return the bodies to their families and the search will resume again tomorrow.

The family of Brazilian student Felipo Melo have thanked the people of New Plymouth who have helped search for him.

His uncle Jose Martines says Felipe was very much loved by his family, had many friends and a strong desire to live.

He says his family will never forget the people of New Plymouth.

Photo: NZ Herald