Yachtie drowns in Whangarei

The body of an experienced boatie and "fabulous family man" was found yesterday morning in Whangarei harbour.

A search for Robert Kelly, 67, started on Friday when he failed to return from taking out his 6m yacht.

The craft was found run aground with the engine running in a small bay near Whangarei Heads. Kelly's body was not on board.

His wife of 41 years, Beth Kelly, said she didn't get worried until it started getting late on Friday.

"I called his cell (phone) two times but he didn't answer. On the third the police answered it. They were on the boat and found no one on it."

Police suspect he fell overboard and his death has been referred to the Coroner.