A coroner says the people who tried to rescue a boy trapped against rocks by a waterfall should be given bravery awards for the efforts they made to try to save him.
Dion Latta, 15, died from hypothermia after he was trapped upside down by his leg against rocks in the Motatapu Gorge near Wanaka in January.
Several methods were attempted to try to free him and some rescuers were swept over rocks.
Dion was freed after three hours, but died the next day.
Coroner David Crerar said the police, friends and family who worked to free him risked their own lives and should be formally recognised for their bravery.
Mr Crerar also called Dion brave and tenacious and sent his sympathy and condolences to his family.
