A search for a missing windsurfer yesterday could have been avoided if he had notified family and fellow windsurfers of his trip intention, according to police.

A windsurfer was reported missing from Fergusson Park. Photo: GoogleEarth.

Tauranga Police were called to Fergusson Park in Matua on Saturday afternoon after reports of a suspected missing windsurfer.

Police say the windsurfer was seen sailing about 4.30pm off the park but couldn't be seen a short time later.

'The windsurfer's vehicle was still at the park over an hour later and other winder surfers called police due to their concerns for his wellbeing.”

Tauranga Coastguard and the Trustpower TECT rescue helicopter were called in to assist with the search.

Police say enquiries with the missing windsurfer's family revealed he had intended sailing over to Pilot Bay and was running back to get his vehicle.

'The windsurfer later informed police this was always his intention and admitted leaving a trip intention note in his vehicle would have been a wise move.”