Search for missing diver in Raglan

Raglan police say there is still hope for a diver missing off Gannet Island since 3pm today, as the searchers call a halt as the light fades.

A spokesman at the search base set up at Raglan Police station said conditions were good with a warm forecast for overnight and tomorrow,when they would resume at first light.

Several boats may continue the search through the night, police said.

Coastguard boats and planes and a rescue helicopter have been scouring the Tasman Sea around Gannet Island, a popular diving spot 19 km off the mainland harbour of Kawhia, near Raglan, after receiving an emergency call from boaters who lost sight of the diver.

"The vessel that he was diving off, they had seen him surface but he disappeared before they could get to him," Inspector Ian Brooker said.

Gannet Island is a wildlife sanctuary and breeding grounds for fur seals and gannet, as well as a popular spot to dive for large crayfish and kingfish.

- NZPA