Ten Search and Rescue teams are scouring the hills near Waihi in efforts to find a missing man.
Grant Ridley, of Waihi, had not been seen for three days and police said they were concerned because his disappearnce was out of character. His car was still parked at his house.
A police communications spokeswoman said searchers were today combing farmland around the Orokawa Reserve.
"This could take several days due to the rough terrain in the area."
The reserve covers a large piece of coastal land between Waihi and Waihi Beach and offers walking tracks, rock fishing and picnic spots.