Concerns rise for missing dementia sufferer

Trevor Smith.

Hamilton residents are being urged to check their gardens, sheds and outbuildings as the hunt for a missing dementia sufferer enters its third day.

Kawhia's Trevor Smith, 70, was last seen on the ramp leading to the public entrance of Waikato Hospital about 5pm on Sunday.

Today, police have set up a kiosk at Waikato Hospital where Mr Smith's picture is on display.

Mr Smith was last seen wearing this distinctive NRL jersey.

There is also a mannequin dressed in a distinctive, green Vodafone Warriors NRL rugby league jersey, the same type Mr Smith was wearing when he was last seen.

"The purpose of this is refreshing the memory of staff or frequent visitors to the hospital who may recall seeing Mr Smith and where he was going,' says Detective Senior Sergeant Ross Patterson.

About 40 police and land search and rescue volunteers are involved in physical searches today while a large team of detectives are following up on sighting reports they have received.

"A particular concern for police and Mr Smith's family is that he suffers from mild dementia and diabetes which could add to any sense of disorientation he is likely to be experiencing," Mr Patterson said.

Searches have also been carried out of Waikato Hospital and the surrounding area.

And police have been assisted by a large group of Mr Smith's friends and family who helped search the area around Hamilton's Lake Rotoroa.

"While these searches are going on, the public can play an important part in helping to locate Mr Smith," Mr Patterson said.

"We would really appreciate it if property owners and key holders can check their properties, gardens, sheds and outbuildings and if they see something - do something by phoning 111."

Police ask that anyone who sees someone wearing one of Warriors jerseys to check if that person may be Mr Smith and if they think it is, to ring 111.