Searchers will continue to look for Lucas Cochrane in Whitianga, and expect to maintain their search for at least the next two days.

'We won't stop looking for Lucas. Unfortunately, we don't have any positive leads on where he might be,” says Waikato East Area Commander Inspector John Kelly.

The search for Lucas Cochrane is continuing in Whitianga.

'Without that information we will continue to search the entire township and waterways.

'Given the number of water features in the area, we have called in the Police National Dive Squad to assist the search co-ordinators.”

John says police are working with volunteer specialists to find Lucas, who was last seen on Saturday night in Whitianga.

'As time goes on obviously our concerns grow for Lucas and we will continue to assess our approach to the search day by day.

'As you would expect, the family of Lucas are upset but we continue to support his relatives during this stressful time.

'Finally, I would like to pass on my gratitude to volunteers, police staff, other emergency service personnel and anyone else involved in the search.”

The community spirit has been strong and local people have been generous in donating refreshments to our dedicated teams comprising more than 30 personnel.

Although more rain is forecast for the next few days in Whitianga, the search is expected to continue.

The family is requesting privacy.