The Otago Daily Times understands the surfer found on the beach by a member of the public about 6.50pm was South Coast Boardriders club member Chris Sinclair.
Senior Sergeant Craig Dinnissen, of Dunedin, said the surfer was still attached to his surf board, but was unable be revived by a member of the public who performed CPR.
There were no suspicious circumstances, Snr Sgt Dinnissen said.
Mr Sinclair was a member of the South Coast Boardriders club.
It is understood he was an experienced surfer and paddle boarder.
Club chairman Cam Burrows declined to comment and other members and surf lifesavers also did not want to talk, but expressed their sadness.
Friend and former neighbour for more than 13 years Toby Stoff said Mr Sinclair was a ‘‘real family man’’, a lover of the outdoors and full of energy.
The father of two was a great person and always happy to stop for a chat, Mr Stoff said.
‘‘He was a real solid member of the community.’’
Te Runanga o Otakou placed a rahui (temporary closure) on the area surrounding St Kilda and St Clair Beaches until 9am today.
Police are making inquiries about the death on behalf of the coroner.
