Rahui Imposed at Shelly Beach as Search for Missing Man Enters Third Day

A rahui is in place at Auckland’s Shelly Beach following the disappearance of a man on Sunday. Local iwi, Coastguard, and the Navy are involved in the ongoing search.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 22, 2026, 5:03 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Search Efforts and Naval Assistance

The search for the missing individual has intensified over the last 48 hours. Coastguard Kaipara confirmed that the Royal New Zealand Navy's hydrographic team is now assisting local police and coastguard units. The Navy’s involvement typically brings advanced sonar and underwater mapping technology to assist in locating objects in the challenging tidal conditions of the Kaipara Harbour.

The Rahui: Cultural Significance and Boundaries

The rahui was officially placed by local iwi and hapu to respect the spiritual sanctity of the area during the search.

Purpose: A rahui is often implemented following a drowning or disappearance to allow the area to heal and to prevent the gathering of food (kaimoana) out of respect for the missing person and their whānau (family).

Compliance: The public is asked to avoid the water and shoreline in the immediate Shelly Beach vicinity until the rahui is lifted.