Search and rescue operation underway after clothes abandoned on Wellington's Hataitai Beach

The clothes were left at the Evans Bay Parade end of Hataitai Beach at 9pm on Monday night.
The clothes were left at the Evans Bay Parade end of Hataitai Beach at 9pm on Monday night. Photo credit: Google Maps

Police have launched a search and rescue operation after abandoned clothes were found on Wellington's Hataitai Beach on Monday night.

They are seeking help from the public in identifying the owner of the clothes, which were left on the sand near Evans Bay Parade at 9pm.

The garments include a faded black t-shirt, green and orange Nike running shoes, and a pair of green and white ankle socks, police say.

A man wearing black shorts was seen wading into the water at Hataitai Beach at around the same time as the clothes were left on the sand, however it's not yet known whether this is connected.

A search and rescue operation is ongoing.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who saw a man in the area matching the description or wearing the clothes described.

Those with information that may assist police are encouraged to phone 105 and quote event P045434543.

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