UK tourist dies 'river-boarding'

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A British woman has been killed while taking part in the extreme sport of river-boarding in New Zealand.

The 21-year-old became trapped in rocks in the Kawarau River gorge near the resort of Queenstown on the country's South Island, police said.

The activity, run by Queenstown-based Mad Dog River Boarding Company, involves riding over rapids on a board.

The Foreign Office is in contact with her family, and she will be named when next of kin have been informed.

Inquiry launched

Sgt Stephen Ereckson, of New Zealand Police, said the woman was with a group in the gorge near the town of Cromwell when the incident happened.

He said guides tried for about 20 minutes to free the woman from rocks in the middle of the river before attempts were made to resuscitate her on the riverbank.

The river was flowing normally and an investigation will be launched, he added.

The activity company's owner Brad McLeod told Radio New Zealand the incident was his "worst nightmare".

'Element of risk'

He said emergency procedures had been followed and that the firm would be closed until further notice.

The company's website describes the trip as "the most personally challenging and action-packed water activity in New Zealand".

"Strict safety procedures are observed, however there still remains an element of risk, and the operator cannot absolutely guarantee participants' safety," it continues.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We are in contact with the family and are providing consular assistance."