Police have expressed their upset after responding to a false flare alert near Mount Maunganui.
A flare sighting sparked several search vessels searching an area around Moturiki Island (Leisure Island) and Motuotau Island (Rabbit Island) on Saturday night.
Police received several calls at about 8.40pm after a red flare wasseen in the area of the Mount.
It was seen as far away as Welcome Bay.
Police said in a statement that the Port of Tauranga Pilot vessel "Arataki" was first in the area but could not find any vessels in distress.
Two rescue boats from Tauranga Coastguard and an IRB from Mount and Omanu Surf Life Saving Clubs were also deployed to search the area.
Another witness was located fishing at the end of Moturiki Island who saw the flare but said it had been behind him coming from the beach or just inland.
Sergeant Craig Madden stated: "It is now believed the flare was set off from land and there was never a vessel in distress."
He said it was disappointing the people involved did not consider the consequences of their actions.
"It was a waste of Search and Rescue resources. Anyone caught setting off flares when there is no emergency will find themselves in court."
• Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact the Tauranga police on 07 5774300. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
