“Sorry, we’re late. It took us ages to look for a parking place," said John.

John finally found a parking place after a long time searching even though they were late.

John said that he was late because he had spent a lot of time finding a parking place.

John said sorry for being late because he had to try his best to look for a parking place.

John apologized for being late because it took them much time to find a parking place.