An operation continues on Sunday to locate a man who is unaccounted for following a water-related incident in Ōpōtiki.

Police were called to the Waioeka River at around 5.30pm on Friday after a report that a man had fallen off his boat and was swept downstream.

Emergency services carried out an initial search of the area and located the vessel nearby.

A rescue helicopter and private helicopters were also engaged in the search, as well as local jet boat operators.

“Sadly, at this stage, the man remains outstanding,” Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander, Inspector Nicky Cooney said.

Police continue to search for the man in the Waioeka River, near the junction with Waiata Stream.

“Police will be using land-based and water-based resources, alongside a Police drone to carry out aerial searches,” Inspector Cooney said.

“We continue to support the man’s family at this difficult time.”