Police say the body found on Takapuna Beach yesterday was that of 26-year-old Stephen Kapeli, who was reported missing from Takapuna on Wednesday April 5.
Stephen's family say they are "heartbroken and devastated by the loss".
"He was such a loving, warm and gentle soul and he meant the world to us," they said in a statement released by police.
"Life has been full of many challenges for Stephen after being diagnosed with Bipolar Affective Disorder and we are in admiration of how he overcame many of the situations he was faced with. He touched the hearts of all who knew him.
"Stephen was an intelligent, warm, funny and empathetic soul with a gentle and caring nature. He had four passions - music, swimming, sport and gaming. He loved to play indoor netball and soccer and felt great enjoyment from spending time with his friends and family and being part of a team. But his true love was music and he found great comfort in music and being in, and near the water.