New information reveals missing Mount Maunganui man Stephen Tracey was last seen by someone who knows him on the beach at 6pm Saturday, a police statement says.

Steve, 37, was last seen sitting on Mt Maunganui beach, near Leisure Island.

Stephen Michael Tracey. Photo: Supplied.

A statement from his family says Steve is a friendly, outgoing person whose warmth and kindness has touched many.

'Although Steve regularly walked up and around Mt Maunganui and along the beach between the Mount and Papamoa, not returning is completely out of character,” says the statement.

'The amazing love and support we have received illustrates Steve's popularity. We wish to extend our appreciation to the Police, Search & Rescue, MT Maunganui Surf Life Saving Club and Steve's many friends who are continuing to search the area.

'We ask that members of the public keep an eye out for Steve. If they have any information relating to his whereabouts, please notify the Mt Maunganui Police as soon as possible.”

District police communications manager Kim Perks says the family has requested any media inquiries be made through police.

The first media statement outlined Steve being last seen by family at about 5pm on Saturday when he said he was going for a walk and would be returning in about an hour.

The 6pm sighting is the last confirmed sighting.

He did not take his wallet or phone with him, which is out of character.

Police have carried out a number of searches and enquiries with the assistance the Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club and local search and rescue volunteers, but there have been no sightings.

Stephen has not been in contact with his family since leaving on Saturday afternoon.

The 37-year-old is described as 6ft 2 and of athletic build, about 90 kgs.

He was last seen wearing a t-shirt, shorts and sandals.

Anyone with any information are to contact Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300.