A man who died while trying to save his son from strong currents at the mouth of the Rees River in Glenorchy on Friday afternoon (January 13) is from Wānaka, police have confirmed. 

The man is Linkin Kisling (48). Police said he is also known as Leroy Kaaho.

He entered the water where the river meets Lake Wakatipu after his 10-year-old son was swept away.

The boy was rescued by a member of the public but Linkin/Leroy did not surface.

Emergency services were called about 3pm but a huge search effort involving boats and two helicopters couldn't find him.

The Police National Dive Squad arrived on Saturday morning and by 3pm had found his body on the lakebed about 50 metres from the river mouth, news website Stuff reported.

Police acknowledged members of the public who provided assistance to the man's family on Friday as the incident unfolded.

The death will be referred to the Coroner.

PHOTO: Unsplash