A man who was found dead in his ute after being overwhelmed by floodwaters this week has been identified by his family.
Emergency services were called to State Highway 39 between Pirongia and Ōtorohanga on Friday evening after a member of the public located a vehicle submerged in floodwaters.
"Sadly, one person was located deceased inside the vehicle," police said.
A spokesperson for the family today confirmed to 1News the man who died in the incident was Brent Knowles.
Venturer Fishing Charters Kawhia posted a Facebook tribute on Sunday, saying Knowles was a regular customer.
"Rest in peace Brent," it said.
Knowles' daughter also paid tribute to her dad, writing: "My beautiful dad. You were my world, I loved you so much."
"Life will never be the same. Broken," she said.
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