\u201cSam is warm, empathetic, kind, and incredibly generous. Sam plays a significant role in the lives of his family and friends, and we are deeply concerned for him,\u201d the page said. <\/p>\n
While the search continues, his family were seeking donations to support the people he loves most and their living costs. <\/p>\n
The page raised over $ 7000 within an hour.<\/p>\n
\u201cSam has spent most of his career helping others and supporting our communities. Now we\u2019re asking for help for him.\u201d<\/p>\n
Police search launched <\/p>\n
Police said his vehicle was found at the Mercer Bay Loop carpark in the Wait\u0101kere Ranges, raising concerns for his safety.<\/p>\n
Earlier this week, his family said the disappearance was \u201chighly out of character\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey are deeply concerned that he is missing,\u201d they said in a statement.<\/p>\n
Sam Newton-Jones has been reported missing from West Auckland. Photo \/ NZ Police<\/p>\n
His family said Newton-Jones, a doctoral psychology student, had experienced mental health challenges in the past but recently spoke optimistically about the year ahead.<\/p>\n
Newton-Jones, born in Dunedin, trained as an engineer before changing careers in his mid-20s to pursue psychology. <\/p>\n
He was in the final stages of completing his PhD and passionate about helping children and young adults overcome adversity. <\/p>\n
Police were hoping anyone who spotted Newton-Jones on the Mercer Bay Loop Track or around Piha would come forward. <\/p>\n
He also visited the walking track on Monday, and anyone who saw him that day was encouraged to come forward.<\/p>\n
Newton-Jones is about 185cm tall, wears glasses, and was last seen in a white shirt, black pants, and black sneakers. <\/p>\n
His family has asked Piha residents, in particular,to keep an eye out for him. <\/p>\n
The Mercer Bay Loop Track is about 50km west of Auckland city centre.<\/p>\n
The 2.2km loop track takes about an hour to complete, with some steep sections and exposed cliff edges. <\/p>\n