Missing Hamilton man, 84, known to catch rides

Police are concerned about the safety of 84-year-old Raymond Stirling, pictured, as their search enters day three. Photo/Supplied

Police searching for a missing Hamilton man say he was known to wave down motorists to catch a ride.

LandSar crews and family of Raymond Stirling are now entering day three of the search operation after he was reported missing on Tuesday.

He went missing sometime between 7.30pm Monday and 11am Tuesday.

Waikato police Sergeant Phil Bell said crews will continue to search the Halcione Close area of Hamilton, in the suburb of Flagstaff.

The 84-year-old is frail and suffers from mild dementia and has gone missing without his hearing aid or glasses. He is believed to be carrying his walking stick which has a black handle.

Police now have grave concerns for his safety.

Bell said a team of around 30 Police and LandSAR volunteers were today searching every property within one kilometre of where Raymond was last seen.

A Hamilton LandSar crew has a quick briefing before heading off on their search yesterday. Photo/Belinda Feek

Family members are also searching in areas previously known to him including Ngaruawahia and Huntly.

It's unconfirmed what Raymond was last wearing, but it was possibly blue track pants and white sneakers which had a red stripe.

"We ask that residents in the Halcione Close area check their sections, inside and out, plus external buildings such as sheds and garages.

"If anyone sees, or has seen Mr Stirling, they are asked to call 111 immediately.

"In the past Raymond has been known to wave down motorists to catch a ride.
We are very keen to hear from anyone who may have given him a ride or been waved at by him in the last two days.

"We are working hard to locate Raymond and even the smallest piece of information could help, so please don't hesitate to contact us."

Sergeant Vince Ranger holds a map which now encompasses a 1km search area around North Hamilton. Photo/Belinda Feek