A large-scale search is underway for a 20-year-old tramper who did not return from his hike near Lake Ōhau.
Connor Purvis, 20, had intended to climb Mount Huxley on or about December 30, descending via the Huxley River South Branch and concern was raised when he did not return from the tramp.
Police search and rescue teams have been joined by Land Search and Rescue teams from Omarama, Oamaru and Dunedin, along with the Department of Conservation’s alpine rescue team from Aoraki/Mt Cook, with air support provided by Heliventures in Oamaru and Helicopter Line at Mt Cook.
Otago Coastal Search and Rescue Coordinator Sergeant Matt Sheat said search teams had been looking through huts and campsites in the area, but had not found any sign of him.
“We ask anyone who has climbed Mt Huxley or has been tramping or hunting in the Huxley River South Branch between December 28 and January 2 to make contact with police if they haven’t already,” he said.
Sheat added: “We also want to hear from anyone who may have seen or spoken to Connor in the South Temple, Ahuriri or Huxley valleys in that same timeframe.
“It’s a large-scale search over a large area, and the smallest piece of information could make all the difference.”
Purvis was described as having red hair and a handlebar moustache.
Anyone with information about his whereabouts was urged to get in touch with police through 105 ether by calling or online.