Search for possum hunter goes on

Photo / File

Search and rescue volunteers will today continue the hunt for a elderly possum trapper missing in remote north Canterbury despite an "extremely slim" chance of finding him alive.

Alan Hill, 83, has not been seen since he went into the Ashley Gorge area, northwest of Christchurch, last Wednesday morning.

He was not equipped to spend the night in the open and police yesterday said it was unlikely he would be found alive.

More than 40 land search and rescue volunteers, two police dog teams, and helicopter crews have been scouring the steep, slippery terrain but have found no clues since Mr Hill's gloves were found the day after he disappeared.

Mr Hill suffered from a heart condition.

- NZPA