Sonar used in search for missing Wgtn kayaker

Police say there is little chance of the 19-year-old kayaker being found alive. Photo / Thinkstock

Navy crew are using sonar equipment to search Wellington Harbour today for kayaker Cameron Millar, missing for four days.

Police say there is little chance of survival for the 19-year-old after he was tipped from his kayak and became separated from his paddling companion late on Wednesday afternoon. He was not wearing a lifejacket and his kayak was found on the shore and a rucksack and paddle in the water of the harbour.

The water temperature in Wellington Harbour is about 10degC.

An intense search, involving boats, helicopters, divers and searches of the shoreline, since then has been unsuccessful and police asked for the navy's assistance with the use of sonar equipment. The equipment is being used for the first time today.

Mr Millar's parents Ross and Jo Millar yesterday went on the police launch Lady Liz IV to Ward Island, off Eastbourne, near where Mr Millar was last seen, as divers continued searching for him.

Today they issued a statement, thanking police and all those involved in the search and rescue operation "for their huge commitment and compassion, as we come to terms with what has happened"

They also thanked friends, family and wider whanau for their support and love.

"Thanks also to Cameron's friends for their expressions of love and compassion. It means so much to us to know how much Cameron was loved.

"Cameron loved being in Wellington, after arriving at the beginning of this year" the Millars said.

"Cameron is a treasured son and brother. He is creative, quirky and a real individual. You couldn't find a kinder person than Cameron. He's always made us laugh with his unique sense of humour."

Mr Millar, who grew up in Hamilton, was one of four children - he has one older brother and two younger sisters.

He graduated from Whitireia Polytechnic in June this year with a diploma in radio broadcasting.

The family asked for privacy as they came to terms with Mr Millar's disappearance.

- NZPA