The body of a missing kayaker has been found after a search and rescue operation in north Auckland.

Police said they were alerted to a man’s disappearance near Waiwera at around 7.35am today after he was seen coming out of his kayak, then failing to resurface.

A search operation involving police, the Maritime Unit, members from Surf Lifesaving New Zealand and volunteers from Hibiscus Coastguard was launched this morning.

However, police confirmed he was found dead early this afternoon.

The death will be referred to the coroner.