Man overboard in Wellington Harbour: Ferry company undertaking internal review, police search location of interest

East by West Ferries is undertaking an internal review after a man reportedly fell overboard and is still missing on the fourth day of searching for him.

A search-and-rescue mission was sparked on Friday after the sole passenger aboard the 6am sailing from Queens Wharf to Days Bay was nowhere to be found as the vessel approached its destination.

East by West Ferries general manager Mat Jonsson confirmed the company was undertaking an internal review but stressed the initial focus had been supporting staff.

“Obviously the person and their family have been in our thoughts throughout Friday and since.”

The ferry crew issued a mayday call and began to search as soon as they became aware the passenger was missing, Jonsson said.

“We called in a second harbour ferry to assist with the search, which was joined by other vessels responding to the mayday.”

Jonsson said he could not provide further information while police were investigating and the company worked through its review.

Wellington police launch Lady Elizabeth IV could be seen searching around the tip of Miramar Peninsula this afternoon. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Earlier today, Detective Senior Sergeant Rachel Boyd revealed police have identified the man but are not releasing details of his identity.

“Police are providing support to the man’s family, who we will continue to update as the search progresses.”

The man has previously been described as in his 40s, fair-skinned, around 180cm tall with darker hair.

Maritime New Zealand Rescue Co-ordination Centre NZ organised a thorough on-water search effort which involved up to 14 vessels and a rescue helicopter at its peak, Boyd said. It involved detailed modelling and analysis of the harbour.

“Unfortunately the man has yet to be located. The search recommenced yesterday with a potential location of interest identified in the Wellington Harbour”, Boyd said.

“The Police Maritime Unit will continue co-ordinating a search today assisted by the Royal New Zealand Navy.”

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter could be seen on Flight Radar searching across Wellington Harbour after a person reportedly fell off a harbour ferry.

Wellington police launch Lady Elizabeth IV could be seen searching around the tip of Miramar Peninsula this afternoon.

Anyone with information that might help police find the man can call 105, referencing file number 240524/6000.

Georgina Campbell is a Wellington-based reporter who has a particular interest in local government, transport, and seismic issues. She joined the Herald in 2019 after working as a broadcast journalist.