Man missing after car plunge into Kaituna River is named

Kaituna River where Mr Oliver's car left the road. Photo/John Borren

Police have named the man missing after his car was found submerged in Kaituna River as Simon Francis Neil Oliver.

The police dive squad has been searching the riverbed since Friday but the 53-year-old from Maketu was still missing.

Senior Sergeant Glenn Saunders said shoreline searches would continue as weather permitted.

"Based on inquiries so far, police believe Mr Oliver was the only occupant in the car and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time."

Police were called to reports of a crash on Ford Rd near Maketu at 11.03pm on Friday where Mr Oliver's car was found submerged in the river.

The dive squad recovered the car on Saturday afternoon amid extensive searches for Mr Oliver.