An extensive search to locate missing Department of Conservation volunteer worker Mihai Muncas-Nagy has been called off after it failed to turn up any sign of him.

The 33-year-old Romanian went missing on Raoul Island, 1000km northeast of Tauranga in the Kermadec Trench, on Monday, January 2.

Department of Conservation worker Mihai Muncas-Nagy went missing on Raoul Island in the Kermadec Trench on Monday.

DOC Warkworth Great Barrier Island area manager Tim Brandenburg says despite extensive efforts by DOC staff, working in consultation with the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ), Mihai has not been located.

'Given the length of time that has now passed without finding Mihai, it's unfortunately now gone beyond the point where he could reasonably still be expected to be alive.

'Therefore, in discussions with RCCNZ, the difficult decision has been made to formally suspend the search.

'Our hearts and thoughts are now with his family in Romania.”

Mihai is believed to have been taking samples for the weather station on the island when he was swept off the rocks in high swells.

Tim says support is being given to Mihai's family back in Romania, with plans being considered to bring Mihai's wife to New Zealand, should she wish to do so.

'Everyone involved has found this a difficult time, trying to keep the search and hope going, but then having to accept that the outcome is not going to be good.

'We are devastated to think we have lost a dedicated conservationist like Mihai.”

Mihai joined the team on the island at the end of October, fulfilling one of his dreams to go to Raoul.

'His mountaineering experience and ability to work in small teams in the outdoors made him a good fit for the work involved.

'We do know Mihai was very happy to have the opportunity to contribute to the programme on the island.”
Tim says he was passionate about his work, both as a volunteer for the Department and as a ranger back in Romania.

'His workmates on Raoul tell me he was a popular, fun loving and capable person - and a joy to have around.

'He will be hugely missed.”

DOC and the Department of Labour will be carrying out a full investigation into the incident.