NEW Zealand Police searching for missing man Mike McClennan have found the body of a man in dense bush near Hatfields Beach.

While formal identification is yet to take place, Police believe it is Mr McClennan.

The matter has been referred to the Coroner.

North Shore, Rodney & West Auckland Police said: "Police and Mr McClennan's family would like to thank the community for their support during the search period.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, who have requested privacy at this time."

The 75-year-old went missing from his rest home on Wednesday and extensive searches and appeals have been carried out since then.

Mike McClennan coached Saints from 1990-93 and guided Saints to Wembley in 1991 and a Premiership Trophy win in 1992-93.