However, today those involved would rest and re-evaluate next steps, Detective Sergeant Paul Overton said.
“We have extensively searched a vast area since we were first alerted on Friday night, in the hope of bringing the missing man home to his family.
“Our search has by no means stopped, but today we will scale back and consider what other options are available to us,” Overton said.
Several agencies, including Coastguard Tūtūkākā, Coastguard Whangārei, Northland LandSAR, and the Police Eagle Helicopter, have all helped look for the missing man.
More than 45 Coastguard volunteers had been involved in the search since Friday night and as of Monday, more than 190 volunteer hours for the search had been clocked.
Overton said Auckland Coastguard Air Patrol headed out this morning for an aerial search.
A daily reconnaissance search of the shoreline would still take place in the hopes that changing currents, speed and water pressure would help locate the man.
Overton said police appreciated the many offers of help and supportive messages from members of the public and those wishing to help.
“It’s been a really challenging time for everyone involved and we are grateful to each and every person who has assisted us during the past few days.”
A rāhui has been placed on the east coast from Paparoa/Tutukākā to south of Waipū Cove, and including Whangārei Harbour.
Swimming, fishing and seafood gathering is prohibited.
Police continued to ask the public to call 111 if they see anything unusual in the water.
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.
