The family of Maninder (Mani) Singh who tragically drowned at McLaren Falls have spoken for the first time about a loving and caring husband.

Maninder and his friend Jagdeep (Gary) Singh, both died after getting into trouble in the calm lake south-west of Tauranga.

Mani and his wife Jessie. Photos: Supplied.

They were part of a group of four friends visiting the popular recreational park about 10 minutes drive from Tauranga on Monday afternoon.

A family spokesperson, Hemi Tipene, says his wife and family visited the site today to remember and pay tribute to a much loved family man.

'We have lost a husband, brother, son, and friend. Mani has left behind a beautiful wife of six years Jessica or better known as Jessie, who has been left in tears but remembers the wonderful times they both shared and will cherish them forever.”

Hemi says Mani was a caring, charismatic and kind person who had such a fabulous sense of humour.

Maini's wife Jessie says she misses her soul mate.

"I love him, miss him and can't believe God has taken my soulmate away."

Hemi says Mani and Gary will be flown home to India to their final resting place as soon as possible.

It's understood the incident happen in an area known as Bottom Flat. The group came across three rope swings attached to trees on the water's edge.

As Mani swung out over the water, the rope snapped sending him plunging into the water below. He was unable to swim and began to struggle.

All three of the others, none of whom could swim, jumped in to help but only two managed to scramble out.

Sergeant Craig Madden, of western Bay of Plenty police Search and Rescue, says one man with limited swimming ability had jumped in to help his friend when they both disappeared under the water.

There was understood to be a drop off of about 4-6metres beneath the swing in what is typically a safe part of the lake, he said.

None of them ever intended to end up in the water. When the pair's bodies were recovered they were still wearing jeans and shoes.

The group, all originally from India, were asked to leave the area while police conducted a search of the lake and shoreline using Coastguard, Search and Rescue, surf lifesavers and a rescue helicopter.

Police recovered the body of the 25-year-old on Monday evening upstream about 20 metres from where the 27-year-old's body was found about midday Tuesday.

Tauranga City Council has placed a rahui on the lake prohibiting any swimming, fishing or other activities on the water until Saturday.

Additions reporting stuff.co.nz