Body found believed to be that of missing Tongan teen

The body of a young man discovered in New Zealand Tuesday morning is believed to be that of a missing Tongan teenager.

Police said a body has been recovered north of Piha Beach after it was spotted by the Police Eagle helicopter on Monday evening.

At this stage, Police believe it to be the 16-year-old Leka Pasiaka reported missing from Whatipu Beach on December 29, 2018.

A post mortem and a formal identification will now be carried out.

Police said they are unable to comment further at this time.

The teen had been at the beach with family members when someone raised the alarm that he had been caught in a rip.

The Avondale College student has been praised for his bravery after pushing his sister back towards safety when she swam out to try to save him, NZ Herald has reported.