'No stone will be left unturned' in search for missing man Michael McGrath

Michael Craig McGrath, 49, was last seen at his home in Halswell on May 21.

Police declare "no stone will be left unturned" in the ongoing search for missing Christchurch man Michael McGrath.

McGrath, a 49-year-old builder from Halswell, was last seen at his Checketts Ave home on May 21. He was not reported missing until two days later.

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 bicycle was also at the home.

A large police investigation, called Operation Renovation, has since been under way to find him.

Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney, who is leading the investigation, said in a recent police release that the investigation remains active and is being worked on by a dedicated team of detectives.

"Considerable effort is continuing to be made to provide answers for Michael's family, with whom we continue to liaise," he said.

The operation has currently included a scene examination at McGrath's home, calls for sightings of him or his blue 1994 Subaru Legacy station wagon, a number of search warrants at Christchurch properties, a leaflet drop, land and water searches; including a rubbish dump, and forensic examination of "items of interest".

Sweeney said the wide ranging detailed investigation continues to gather potential evidence.

"This is a long-term investigation and one that Canterbury Police are determined to resolve," he said.

"Myself and the team come to work each day with the goal of solving Michael's disappearance and providing answers for his family.

"This remains a missing person's investigation. No stone will be left unturned. All resources and expertise available to the New Zealand Police are and will continue to be utilised."

He said police were grateful for the exposure given to the appeal and appreciate that the public and the media has an ongoing interest in the case.

"However, due to the nature of the investigation police are unable to regularly provide the public with detailed accounts of our ongoing inquiries."

A dedicated phone line has been set up for the McGrath case. Anyone with information that could help in the search can call 0800 FINDMICHAEL (0800 346 364) or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.