One of the two fishermen missing in Northland has been found dead in the water by police this afternoon.
The men were reported missing just before midnight on Wednesday, after failing to return from fishing on rocks, near Taiharuru, earlier in the day.
A police spokesperson said it was a “devastating development” for the family and loved ones of the men.
“They are in everyone’s thoughts.”
RNZ reported the pair had recently migrated to New Zealand from India with their young families.
A rāhui has been put in place around The Gap for the next five days.
Police and volunteers are continuing their search for the other man this afternoon.
The missing men were due to be home in Whangārei by 11pm on May 1, and were last heard from at about 4pm on the day, police said earlier.
“Police attended the area they were last known to be after the emergency call was made.
“Their vehicle, along with some personal belongings on the beach area, were located.”
Police earlier warned jet ski owners to stay out of the way during the search.
“Yesterday, we were aware of some private jet skis in the search area,” police said, in a statement.
“While police appreciate the wider public’s support in the search for these men, we are asking the public to stay away from the search area.
“This is for the safety of our dive squad and to not impede the professional staff and volunteers in their work.”
Police said today that the search for the men was continuing with volunteers helping.
A helicopter from Auckland was deployed to the search yesterday.
“We continue to acknowledge the support of our partners who are deploying resources to the area. Coastguard Tutukaka volunteers are assisting the dive squad today, with Northland Coastguard air patrol also conducting the search from the sky.
“The Ruakākā Surf Lifesaving Patrol search and rescue squad are also deploying two inflatable rescue boats to assist the search.”