Search for missing yacht on East Cape

The HMNZS Manawanui was diverted after a reported flashing light off the coast, but it was not the missing yacht. File photo / Alan Gibson

Authorities have launched a search for a missing yacht and its sole occupant, who have failed to arrive in Gisborne on a voyage from Tauranga.

The Rescue Coordination Centre in Wellington said an aerial search began today for the 11-metre yacht Tafadzwa, which left Tauranga on Friday morning.

Search coordinator Keith Allen said the skipper called his partner on his cellphone about 1.30pm Friday but police were called when he failed to arrive at work yesterday.

A search plane carrying three observers left Hamilton at 10.30am to search the coast and ocean off the East Cape between Tauranga and Gisborne.

Mr Allen said they had not determined the extent of the search area, because they did not know how far offshore the yacht had sailed.

The yacht was well equipped with an emergency locator beacon and flares but the skipper has not responded to marine radio broadcasts. He had a VHF radio, but may not have it turned on.

Mr Allen said while today's forecast was for four-metre swells, there were greater concerns the yacht had been hit by the severe southerly storm which moved up the east coast on Friday night.

He said the naval vessel Manawanui was diverted early today to investigate reports of a flashing light in the Bay of Plenty, but it was a light attached to a long line.

- NZPA