An officer watches as sand is removed as part of the search for any clues around Joseph Ahuriri's disappearance. Photo: Supplied / NZ police
A beach dig for clues into the disappearance of Gisborne father Joseph Ahuriri has failed to yield any clues, police say.
The father of eight was attempting to head to Gisborne from Napier as Cyclone Gabrielle hit the region in February last year.
He was last seen at the Waitomo fuel stop in Bay View, Napier, on 14 February 2023.
This week police have been digging up a section of beach at the mouth of Esk River, just off North Shore Road, north of Napier.
The area was chosen because of a magnometer drone survey, which showed a metal-like object of interest around 5 metres below the surface.
Officers and specialist search teams used an excavator to move around 2000 cubic metres of sand.
Photo: Supplied via NZ Police
Detective Sergeant Alex Simister said the result of the search had been "disappointing".
"Unfortunately, we have not been able to locate Joseph or any items of interest in relation to his disappearance."
He said police had been committed to finding Ahuriri since his disappearance.
"I want to acknowledge the resilience of his family throughout this operation.
"They were present at the river throughout the search and were obviously hopeful for some form of resolution."
Simister said police would continue to search for answers.
"Whether that involves another physical search is something we need to consider."
Police have been searching the Bay View area (pictured), focusing on an area of beach at the mouth of Esk River, just off North Shore Road. Photo: Supplied / NZ police