Search for missing fisherman off Raglan coast paused

2:08 pm on 8 May 2024
A boat going through the Hokianga Harbour

(file image). Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

The search for the man who went missing off the coast of Raglan more than two weeks ago has been paused.

The fisherman reported via Maritime Radio at 8.23am on 23 April that he was safely across the Raglan bar and was heading out to 40 metres to fish.

Nearly two hours later, he made another call, reporting he was having a medical event and activated his emergency locater beacon.

Coastguard responded and located his boat however the man was not found.

The National Police Dive Squad, the New Zealand Navy, Coastguard and a fixed-wing aircraft all searched the area.

Inspector Will Loughrin said as the man has still not been found, the current search would be paused unless there was any information leading to an interest for further searching.

The matter has been reported to the Coroner and police said they remained in contact with the family.

Anyone who was out boating or fishing on the morning of 23 April in the Raglan area was being asked to get in touch with police.