Police believe a body found on an east Auckland beach on November 12 is that of a kayaker who went missing on the Firth of Thames seven days earlier.
On November 6 police publicly announced a search was under way for a kayaker who set out from Kaiaua at about 3pm the previous day with the intention of fishing at mussel farms.
“He did not return as expected and was reported missing last night [November 5] by his family,” police said.
“An extensive search has been carried out since the man was reported missing.
“Police have led the search with both the police maritime unit and Eagle helicopter involved.
“Coastguard has provided assistance and a fixed-wing aircraft has also been deployed this morning.”
At about 6.30am on November 6 the man’s kayak and fishing gear was found some distance from Orere Point.
Police said they urgently wanted to hear from anyone in the Firth of Thames area who may have seen something which could assist in locating the missing kayaker.
On November 12 police said a body had been found in Beachlands.
They were notified at about 6.30am to a report of a body on the beach.
“Until we complete the formal identification process we are unable to confirm the identity of the body,” police said in a statement.
Police said today, November 14, the formal identification process remains ongoing after the body was found near Beachlands on Saturday morning.
“However, police can advise we believe the body to be that of the kayaker reported missing on the Firth of Thames on November 5.
“The matter will be referred to the coroner.
“At this stage police are not able to release the identity of the person found while formal identification procedures are completed.”
