A man reported missing after going overboard from a vessel off the coast of Whakatāne has been found.
The man was last seen around midnight and is believed to have gone overboard between midnight and 3 a.m. when authorities were alerted.
Several search and rescue helicopters, as well as the police Eagle helicopter, have been involved in the search.
The formal identification process is underway to confirm the man’s identity.
Police are expressing gratitude to the Rescue Coordination Centre, Coastguard Whakatāne, and Ōpōtiki volunteers for their assistance in the search.
The rescue operation was launched with utmost urgency, involving the Rescue Coordination Centre and Coastguard NZ, with support from police.
The search area is around 300 square nautical miles (1028 square kilometers).
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