New clues in the mysterious disappearance of Christchurch man, Michael McGrath, who has been missing for two months. Footage from TVNZ-2
Family of a Christchurch builder who has been missing for two months say they believe something sinister has happened.
And police have tonight revealed more details about the last movements of Michael McGrath and their search for him, which includes an appeal to find a car seen "in the hoursof darkness" near his home.
The 49-year-old left his home on Checketts Ave in the Christchurch suburb of Halswell on May 21 and hasn't been seen since.
CCTV screen shot of Michael McGrath at Halswell New World on Friday, 19th May 2017. Photo / Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney
The case featured on tonight's episode of TVNZ's Police ten 7.
"You have these nightmares," his brother Simon McGrath said.
"I wake up and I'm living a nightmare. I think something sinister has happened to him.
"I know something bad has happened. He's never walked off in his life. He's a good brother, good set of friends. He wasn't on the wrong side of the law. It's not something he would do."
Detective Sergeant Kylie Schaare revealed revealed McGrath was last seen at his home at 4.30pm on Sunday, May 21.
But he was not reported missing until the Tuesday. His normal routine was to have dinner with his mother on Tuesdays but he never turned up.
His family found his home locked, with his wallet and cash inside. His phone had not been used since May 21, nor had his bank account.
His 1994 blue Subaru Legacy was parked in the driveway which was unusual as it was usually in the garage. His push bike was also at the home.
McGrath may have had a 9am appointment on the Monday in Halswell but he "may or may not" have attended, Schaare said.
Police are asking the public for sightings of a late 90s silver Toyota Camry during the month of May in the Halswell or greater Christchurch area.
Police are asking the public for sightings of a late 90s silver Toyota Camry during the month of May. Photo / NZ Police
Schaare said it "may have been seen in the hours of darkness" between the Sunday and Tuesday.
A detailed search and rescue operation had been carried out and a dive squad used in the Halswell area.
"As time goes by, it doesn't diminish our drive to get answers for Michael's family," Schaare said.
"It's really important to us, the family and the community to find Michael and to find out what's happened to him."
A team of more than 20 police staff have been searching the Kate Valley refuse centre over the last four weeks and Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney said a considerable number of items of interest had been identified.
"A number of items are being examined further, and analysis of the many hours of CCTV footage gathered during our enquiries is also ongoing," he said.
CCTV screen shot of Michael McGrath at Halswell New World on Friday, 19th May 2017. Photo / Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney
"We continue to speak with a number of people of interest, and Police will be bringing in some expertise for next Monday to search some specific areas for evidence relating to Michael's disappearance."
Police also shared CCTV footage of McGrath who was captured on CCTV footage purchasing his groceries for the week on May 19.
Police have set up a dedicated phone line for people who have information regarding his whereabouts.
Anyone with information can call 0800 346 364 (0800 findmichael) or provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
