NZer missing in hurricane area emails family

Brendan Clifford-Walsh, the New Zealander missing after the New Orleans hurricane, has finally made contact with his family.

Relatives confirmed today Mr Clifford-Walsh, 65, had sent an email but gave few details about his intentions or whereabouts.

It was the first time he had made contact since telling his family that he was heading to the New Orleans Superdome as Hurricane Katrina bore down on the city.

He apparently spent a week in the Superdome before heading to Dallas when the family was told by an Irish consulate official he was safe.

His niece Dara Walsh said today's email was a great relief.

- NZPA