Mass search for diver missing overnight

Rescuers are searching from Rocky Point to Pukerua Bay and out to Mana Island (pictured). Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

More than 40 people are searching for a diver missing near Titahi Bay, Porirua, since last night.

The 49-year-old man had gone diving for paua yesterday evening, but failed to come home last night. His partner called the police around 11pm.

The search for the man began at first light this morning, around 5.30am.

Inspector Mike Wright, officer in charge of the search operation, said the search is continuing this afternoon on land and along the shoreline, on the water and as an aerial search.

"There are more than 40 people involved in the search, including Land [Search and Rescue] volunteers, Coastguard, Westpac Rescue helicopter, the Wellington Police Maritime Unit with Lady Elizabeth IV, a component of the Police National Dive Squad and other police staff on the ground."

An area from from Rocky Point in the south to Pukerua Bay in the north and out to Mana Island is being searched.

Mr Wright said a backpack belonging to the missing diver has been found, about one kilometre south of Titahi Bay beach. This discovery has given police a "splash point", providing a point of entry into the water.

"We also know that the missing diver's partner received a text message from him about 6 o'clock last night, indicating he'd found a good dive spot. After not hearing from him again for several hours she became worried and contacted police."

Police are urging boaties in the area this morning to look out for the missing diver and to report any information as soon as possible on 04 381 2000.

- NZHERALD STAFF