A search for a missing fisherman off the coast of Pataua South has resumed this morning, with assistance from the Royal New Zealand Navy.
Police, including the National Dive Squad, Search and Rescue crews and the Royal New Zealand Navy headed back out on the water earlier this morning.
The man was one of two people onboard a boat that was reported overdue on Friday night.
Detective Sergeant Paul Overton says the 17-foot runabout was meant to return at 7pm on Friday, and the alarm was raised at 9pm.
"On Saturday morning the boat was found drifting with no-one aboard, and shortly after a body of one of the two fishermen was found.
"This is a really tough time for the families of those fisherman, and for our community as a whole."
Detective Sergeant Overton says search crews remain focused on bringing the missing man home to his whānau.
"A large-scale search by sea and air is ongoing, along with searches of the shoreline.
"The Royal New Zealand Navy has also kindly offered to assist in the search today, and we are grateful to have their expertise to assist.
"I would also like to like extend my thanks to all the other agencies involved in the search, as well as those members of the public who have been nothing short of generous with their time and support."
Police continue to ask the public to contact us on 111 if you see anything unusual in the water.
