By 3 News online staff
The search for a missing charter boat operator continues off the Bay of Plenty coast today.
Richard Rusbatch’s 38-foot yacht Honfleur was discovered about 11 nautical miles off Mayor Island, by a member of the public yesterday morning.
The 56-year-old left Tauranga on Sunday, headed for Paihia.
Western Bay of Plenty Police Area Commander Inspector Karl Wright-St Clair says an immediate search of the yacht found no one on board.
The yacht was found with the motor running and the anchor dragging in the water.
Police and the Rescue Coordination Centre are conducting an aerial and water search.
3 News / NZN