Police are today packing up their base at Whitianga LandSar as they wrap up their investigation into the whereabouts of Luke Cochrane.
The 19-year-old was last night found in a waterway outside a property on Aquila Dr in the township, just a few hundred metres from where he was last seen at the local fire station.
Inspector John Kelly said all volunteers and national dive squad members were now heading home.
Police would continue to make routine inquiries for the coronial investigation, which would probe Cochrane's cause of death.
On Aquila Dr, there's a sombre mood but residents are relieved the Cochrane family have recovered Luke.
The owner of the house where Cochrane's hat was found said she believed it was found on the ground near the water's edge.
There was heavy rain in the town on Saturday night - more than 200mm fell - causing the waterway tide to rise so much that it was lapping over the concrete wall that borders all properties.
The resident said someone put the hat on the fence that borders their neighbour's holiday home.
As for why Cochrane ended up in Aquila Dr - and not near his rented Albert St bach - would likely come out in the coroner's inquest, however some locals have suggested he may have got disorientated when leaving the fire station and headed off in the wrong direction.
Cochrane's family issued a statement last night saying they were "saddened but relieved to have Luke returned to us".
"The people of Mercury Bay and local businesses - far too many to name - have humbled us with their overwhelming kindness and generosity in our moment of need," they said in a joint statement.
"Police and Search and Rescue, along with family and friends and many volunteers who didn't even know Luke - we give you our heartfelt thanks for your love and support."
