Four days after the alarm was first raised over a missing fisherman off Pataua South, police have announced the search is moving into a new phase, with resources being scaled back as investigators weigh their remaining options.
The man was one of two people aboard a 17-foot runabout reported overdue on Friday night. The boat and the body of the second man were found on Saturday morning, but despite extensive efforts in the days since, the missing fisherman has not been located.
Yesterday's operation drew on a significant pool of resources, including the National Dive Squad, Search and Rescue teams, Coastguard crews, and Royal New Zealand Navy personnel, all covering a broad stretch of coastline and open water. Detective Sergeant Paul Overton, Northland Police Search and Rescue Team Leader, says the Auckland Coastguard Air Patrol joined the aerial search this morning as part of the continuing effort.
"We have extensively searched a vast area since we were first alerted on Friday night," Overton says. "Our search has by no means stopped, but today we will scale back and consider what other options are available to us."
Daily shoreline reconnaissance will continue, with hope that shifting currents and water movement will assist in the recovery. Throughout the operation, resources have included the Police Eagle helicopter, LandSAR teams, Coastguard Tūtūkākā, Coastguard Whangārei, Navy personnel, and local volunteers.
Overton also acknowledged the strong support shown by the community. "It's been a really challenging time for everyone involved and we are grateful to each and every person who has assisted us during the past few days."
Police are asking the public to call 111 if they spot anything unusual in the water.
