Former cop found dead at marina

Former police inspector Alan Wright. Photo / supplied

A man found dead in the water at Bayswater Marina on Auckland's North Shore this morning has been identified as a former police inspector.

Alan Wright, 58, retired from his role at the Waitemata district headquarters in January this year, and was living on a boat in the marina.

Police were called about 1am after relatives reported him missing and a search was commenced.

His body was found in the water at dawn.

Waitemata district commander Superintendent Bill Searle said police in the district were shocked and saddened by the sudden death.

"His untimely and accidental death is tragic. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, present and former colleagues.''

Mr Wright spent 34 years in policing, first as a traffic officer with the Ministry of Transport and then as a police officer since from 1992, Mr Searle said.

"Alan spent virtually his entire career in the Auckland region where he was well known and respected. He was a real character with a great sense of humour. He was passionate about road policing and also his boat.''

The coroner has been informed.