Search for missing kayaker suspended

John Jeffery. Photo / Supplied

The official search for a kayaker missing in Ohiwa Harbour near Whakatane has been suspended.

Ohope man John Jeffery, 71, was believed to have gone kayaking on June 28 or 29, and has not been seen since.

Whakatane police Senior Sergeant Bruce Jenkins said a search of the harbour and nearby coastline had failed to reveal any clues about Mr Jeffery's whereabouts.

"The search has been suspended until we have more information," he said.

The search had involved a helicopter, several boats and up to 45 people.

Police were keen to locate Mr Jeffery's missing kayak and said no action would be taken against anyone who might have taken it.

"If anyone has found a kayak - or heard of anyone finding a kayak - in the Ohiwa Harbour area, they need to contact the police," Mr Jenkins said.

"We want anyone who may have kept the kayak to know that no further action will be taken if they are forthcoming."

Police found Mr Jeffery's vehicle, a black Toyota Windom, parked at the end of Harbour Road near the waterfront.

"All indications are he has gone kayaking in the harbour," Mr Jenkins said.

Mr Jeffery's family had searched the coastline west to Matata and east to Opotiki.

On Monday, they reported Mr Jeffery, who lived alone, missing after becoming concerned about not hearing from him.

Police were now relying on boaties and recreational users of the harbour to report any sightings.

"Typically, 150 boats are on the water around Whakatane over a weekend," Mr Jenkins said.

The kayak has been described as a plastic, orange 3.6-metre Ocean River Largo model with splashes of yellow and red. A black seat with "Viking Kayak" on it may also be missing.

Ngati Awa will place a rahui on the harbour tomorrow out of respect for Mr Jeffery and his family. The ceremony is at the Ohiwa boat ramp at 11am and the public is welcome.

The rahui will take the form of a prohibition on taking seafood. It will be in force until October or until Mr Jeffery is found.

- NZPA