NZ Herald Morning News Update | Trump says US will 'run' Venezuela, search for missing tramper | Monday, January 05. Video / NZ Herald
A large-scale search for a tramper missing near Lake Ōhau has resumed this morning, with specialist crews on the ground.
Connor Purvis, 20, intended to climb Mt Huxley in the Southern Alps about December 30, then descend via the Huxley River South Branch.
However, he failed to return, sparking concern.
Otago Coastal Search and Rescue coordinator Sergeant Matt Sheat earlier said search teams have not found any sign of Purvis in huts and campsites in the area.
This morning, police confirmed that the search is continuing today, with Alpine Cliff Rescue and search and rescue teams on the ground.
“We ask anyone who has climbed Mt Huxley or has been tramping or hunting in the Huxley River South Branch between December 28 and January 2 to make contact with police if they haven’t already,” Sheat said.
A large-scale search over a large area is underway for a missing tramper in the Mt Huxley region of the Southern Alps. Image / Google Maps
“We also want to hear from anyone who may have seen or spoken to Connor in the South Temple, Ahuriri or Huxley valleys in that same timeframe.”
Purvis has red hair and a handlebar moustache, Sheat said.
A large search is under way for Connor Purvis, a tramper missing near Lake Ōhau. Image / NZ Police
The search is being carried out by police search and rescue teams, joined by Land Search and Rescue teams, the Department of Conservation’s alpine rescue team from Aoraki/Mt Cook, and air support from Heliventures in Ōamaru and The Helicopter Line at Mt Cook.
“We urge anyone with information to get in touch with us as soon as possible,” Sheat said.
“It’s a large-scale search over a large area, and the smallest piece of information could make all the difference.”
Information can be provided at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number 260102/2266.
