Search resumes for Wellington kayaker

Photo / Supplied

The search resumed this morning for a kayaker reported missing in Wellington Harbour last night.

The search for the 19-year-old man was sparked after he became separated from his companion close to Ward Island, off Eastbourne, about 6.10pm.

Police this morning refused to speak about the search, other than to say it had resumed.

Fairfax Media reported the man, from Hamilton, and his partner were tipped out of their kayaks while making their way to Ward Island.

His partner, from Lower Hutt, made it to shore to raise the alarm.

Last night's search involved five boats, including the Wellington Coastguard, the Westpac Rescue helicopter, Land Search and Rescue volunteers scouring the shoreline, until it was called off about 2am.

The man's yellow kayak was found last night on the shore about 6km from Ward Island in the Pencarrow area. A rucksack and paddle were also found, in the water.

Hamilton police Senior Sergeant Craig Taylor said the man's family were understandably still in shock.

The man had lived in Wellington for the past year and had just finished his first year studying.

- NZPA