Man missing after crashed car found by stream in North Taranaki

A man has not been seen since crashing his car near a stream north of New Plymouth. Photo: Google street view

A search and rescue operation is under way for a man in his 30s, after his wrecked and empty car was found by a stream in North Taranaki.

Karl Roberts' family, and police, are concerned for his well-being and are appealing to the public for any sightings

The 31-year-old has not been seen since his car crashed on Uruti Rd, in Uruti on Tuesday afternoon.

"It appears Mr Roberts lost control of his vehicle, a green Subaru Impreza, which left the road and slid down a bank, stopping close to the stream that runs parallel to the road," says the police statement.

His vehicle was found at 3.30pm, about two hours after he was believed to have crashed.

Police said a search and rescue team was searching the area around the crash site.

Roberts was described as being Caucasian, of thin build and around 175cm tall.

Police said when he was last seen he was wearing a black beanie, a knee-length dark green Gore-Tex top and running shoes.

If anyone has seen, or had contact with Roberts contact police immediately on 027 241 5932.