Body found on North Shore beach belonged to missing local man

1:28 pm on 12 April 2017

A body found on Takapuna Beach yesterday was a local man who had been missing for almost a week, police have confirmed.

Stephen Kapeli

Stephen Kapeli Photo: NZ Police

Stephen Kapeli, 26, was reported missing on 5 April.

His remains were found yesterday morning on the beach at the end of Hauraki Road.

In a statement released this afternoon, Mr Kapeli's family said they were "heartbroken and devastated".

"He was such a loving, warm and gentle soul and he meant the world to us.

"Life has been full of many challenges for Stephen after being diagnosed with Bipolar Affective Disorder and we are in admiration of how he overcame many of the situations he was faced with. He touched the hearts of all who knew him.

"Stephen was an intelligent, warm, funny and empathetic soul with a gentle and caring nature. He had four passions - music, swimming, sport and gaming. He loved to play indoor netball and soccer and felt great enjoyment from spending time with his friends and family and being part of a team. But his true love was music and he found great comfort in music and being in, and near the water.

"We have so many wonderful and special memories of Stephen and he will leave an irreplaceable hole in our hearts."

The matter has now been referred to the coroner.