Official search for missing boatie Karl Earwaker suspended

The search has been called off for Karl Earwaker. Karl was a contestant in the National Fieldays Rural Bachelor of the Year (pictured). Photo/Te Awamutu Courier

After five days, the official search for missing boatie Karl Earwaker has now been suspended.

Senior Sergeant Mark Pakes said Mr Earwaker was the sole occupant of the Sea Nymph named "Optimist", which was discovered capsized two nautical miles south of Mayor Is on March 21.

"After an extensive search both above and below the ocean surface, by Police Search and Rescue and Mr Earwaker's family and friends, we have not found any leads as to where Karl may be," he said in a written statement.

"I would like to thank all the volunteers from Coastguard, Land Search and Rescue, and our partner agencies who assisted us with this search.

"Our thoughts are very much with Karl's family and friends as they have to come to grips with the loss of a loved one," he said.

The matter had now been referred to the Coroner.