A large-scale search and rescue operation has continued Tuesday in Milford Sound, for a man who has been missing since late on Sunday night.
The solo tramper failed to return after a planned day trip to climb Mitre Peak.
The alarm was raised promptly, and a search and rescue operation began immediately, shortly before midnight.
Detective Tracy Ward says a large number of resources have been working through arduous terrain, supported by helicopter crews.
The search is being supported by Land Search and Rescue teams from Fiordland, Catlins, Tokonui, Clutha, and Southland, Southern Lakes Helicopters, Heli-Otago, Southland Amateur Radio Emergency Communications, specialised Search and Rescue dogs from both Wakatipu and Dunedin as well as Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue teams.
“There is also a huge amount of local support being provided by tourism operator Real NZ at Milford Sound. Roughly 60 search and rescue volunteers, 10 Police staff and numerous helicopter and tourism staff are working hard to find the missing man.”
A Police incident management team is in place in Invercargill, supporting a forward command base at Milford Sound.
Detective Ward said helicopter searches began on Monday and carried on into the night, before resuming this morning.
“Land Search and Rescue field and dog teams have been in the search area since Monday morning, as well as alpine cliff rescue teams due to the incredibly steep terrain in the area. Real NZ has assisted the operation with marine vessels and support staff, as well as assisting the search staff at the forward control base in Milford Sound.
“The search area is relatively contained but incredibly rugged and difficult to navigate once off the track, at times the search teams are only able to progress 250 metres in an hour. While no items of interest have been positively linked to the missing man a number of clues are being following up on and we remain hopeful that there will be a positive outcome.
“The man we are looking for is experienced in the outdoors and we believe he has suitable clothing and provisions, which can make all the difference. We are in contact with his next of kin, but at this stage are not in a position to release further details about him,” Detective Ward said.
“We are expecting a deterioration in the weather tonight and that will affect ongoing search efforts, but Police and volunteer staff will remain in Milford Sound until further notice.”
Police have spoken to a number of people who encountered the man in the vicinity of Mitre Peak on Sunday 4 May. Detective Ward said Police still needed to hear from anyone who was in the area on Sunday if they haven’t already spoken with Police. Please contact Police by making a report online, or by calling 105, referencing the event number P062448221.
