The man was reported overdue about midday yesterday after failing to return from a trip on Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere near Christchurch.
The man's kayak was found at about 2.30pm yesterday.
A police spokeswoman said the search for the man resumed today at 9am but has now concluded for the day.
Police have been speaking to his family who were at the lake.
"Unfortunately the missing man has not yet been located.
"Police would like to thank Waimakariri-Ashley Coastguard and Surf Life Saving NZ for their valuable assistance with the search to date.
"Police are reviewing the search activity undertaken so far and assessing possible next steps."
Yesterday, police helped co-ordinate the search for the man, with assistance from Garden City Helicopters and vessels from the Waimakariri-Ashley Coastguard and Surf Life Saving NZ.
