An RNZAF P3 Orion has completed an initial radar search of the sea south of Tarawa Island, Kiribati, for three fishermen overdue for three days in a 6m boat. No sign has yet been seen of the fishermen.

The aircraft has now landed on Tarawa Island and the search will resume at first light tomorrow.

A further update will be issued mid-morning, unless there are further developments in the meantime.