Man who went overboard of Wellington ferry identified

Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver

Police have identified the man who went missing after he was apparently thrown overboard on a Wellington ferry last week.

The East By West ferry was heading to Days Bay, Eastbourne from Queens Wharf and departed just after 6am on Friday.

The man was the only passenger on board and was no longer on board when the ship reached the dock.

Detective Senior Sergeant Rachel Boyd said police would not release any details about his identity at this stage.

Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver

It has not yet been found, but a potential place of interest has been identified in Wellington Harbour.

“Following a report of a man who had fallen overboard, the New Zealand Maritime Rescue Coordination Center coordinated an extensive on-water search effort using detailed modeling and analysis of the port and rescue efforts. research,” Boyd said.

“The searches involved up to 14 vessels and a rescue helicopter at their peak.”

The search continues on Monday, coordinated by the maritime police unit with the help of the navy.

Boyd said police would continue to update the man's family as the search progressed and would provide support.