The search continued this morning with the added help of the Royal New Zealand Navy.
Detective Sergeant Paul Overton said crews were focused on bringing the missing man home to his whānau.
“A large-scale search by sea and air is ongoing, along with searches of the shoreline.”
Overton thanked the agencies involved, as well as members of the public who “have been nothing short of generous with their time and support”.
A rāhui has been placed on the east coast from Paparoa/Tutukākā to south of Waipu Cove, and including Whangārei Harbour. Swimming, fishing and seafood gathering is prohibited.
Overton asked the public to contact police via 111 if they see anything unusual in the water.
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.