Further marine search for missing swimmer in Titahi Bay nearly complete

The Police National Dive Squad and the Wellington Police Maritime Unit have nearly completed a further marine search today for missing 24 year old swimmer Albert Alapati, last seen in the water around 4pm on Saturday 14 January 2011.

Officer in charge of today's search, Constable Martyn Bayly says Dive Squad members have continued searching since early this morning.

"Surf Lifesaving New Zealand has conducted a further shoreline search today and a Department of Conservation Ranger has carried out a further search of Mana Island."

Constable Bayly says, "We have conducted thorough land, aerial and marine searches over the past few days. Sadly, we have not been able to locate Mr Alapati. Our thoughts are with the Alapati family at this tragic time."

A blessing by local kaumatua Taku Parae was held at Titahi Bay beach around 7am this morning, attended by a large number of Mr Alapati's family, members of the Titahi Bay Surf Lifesaving New Zealand Club and Police.

A Rahui has been imposed for up to a month out of respect for Mr Alapati and his family. It includes an area about one and a half kilometres south of Titahi Bay to Komaunga or Sugar Loaf as it is known, Porirua Harbour and Plimmerton.