Contrary to public rumour, a Mount Maunganui man last seen walking along the beach near Leisure Island is still missing.

Stephen Michael Tracey, 37, failed to return home after telling his family he was going for a walk on Saturday September 27.

Stephen Michael Tracey.

He was last seen by someone who knows him on the beach, by Leisure Island, at 6pm on the 27th.

Tauranga Police Sergeant Scott Merritt says the search remains enquiry based after exhausting all search and rescue efforts initially.

At the time of his disappearance police carried out a number of searches and enquiries with the assistance the Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club and local search and rescue volunteers, but there have been no sightings.

Scott says there were suggestions from the public that Stephen had been found.

'There were rumours floating around that he had been found, but that's untrue.

'As far as we are aware he's still outstanding and enquires are still continuing.”

Scott says efforts are still being made and any public information is welcomed in the hope that it helps to find Stephen and provide some answers to family and friends.

'Anything is something to go on,” he added.

At the time of his disappearance, Stephen's family said he is a friendly, outgoing person whose warmth and kindness has touched many.

'Although Steve regularly walked up and around Mt Maunganui and along the beach between the Mount and Papamoa, not returning is completely out of character,” said the family statement.

'The amazing love and support we have received illustrates Steve's popularity. We wish to extend our appreciation to the Police, Search & Rescue, MT Maunganui Surf Life Saving Club and Steve's many friends who are continuing to search the area.

'We ask that members of the public keep an eye out for Steve. If they have any information relating to his whereabouts, please notify the Mt Maunganui Police as soon as possible.”

Stephen told family he was going for a walk and would be returning in about an hour. He did not take his wallet or phone with him, which is out of character.

The 37-year-old is described as 6ft 2 and of athletic build, about 90 kgs. He was last seen wearing a t-shirt, shorts and sandals.

Anyone with any information are to contact Tauranga Police on: 07 577 4300.