A flare sighting near Mount Maunganui which saw several search vessels searching the area overnight has been called a waste of Search and Rescue resources by police.

Tauranga Coastguard boat. Photo: file.

Tauranga Police received several calls just after 8.30pm on Saturday after a red flare was seen in the Mount and as far as Welcome Bay.

A search was called to investigate an area around Moturiki Island (Leisure Island) and Motuotau Island (Rabbit Island).

Police say the Port of Tauranga Pilot vessel ‘Arataki' was first in the area but could not locate any vessels in distress.

Two Tauranga Coastguard rescue boats and an IRB from Mount Maunganui and Omanu Surf Life Saving Clubs were also deployed to search the area.

Sergeant Craig Madden says a man who was fishing at the end of Moturiki Island saw the flare but says it had been behind him coming from the beach or just inland.

"It's now believed the flare was set off from land and there was never a vessel in distress.

'It's very disappointing we have those who have no consideration as to what their action will cause.”

Craig says the overnight search was a waste of Search and Rescue resources.

'Anyone caught setting off flares when there is no emergency will find themselves in court.”

Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Tauranga Police on 07 5774300. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.