Police Search and Rescue continue search for tramper missing in Kahurangi National Park

Graham Garnett went tramping in the Baton/Ellis River area of the Kahurangi National Park. Photo / Police

Police have continued their search for a hiker who went missing in the South Island’s Kahurangi National Park at the end of last year.

Police Search and Rescue sergeant Jonny Evans said Graham Garnett, 66, went tramping in the Baton/Ellis River area.

“He was expected to return on 30 December, but did not.”

Garnett is around 177cm tall, 100kg, and has grey hair.

“We will be using a radar tomorrow so ask members of the public to steer clear of our search areas,” Evans said.

Tomorrow the following areas in the Baton Valley will be closed while Police Search and Rescue teams search for the 66-year-old:

• Wilkinson Track
• Baton Saddle
• Loveridge Spur Route
• Cowin Spur Track
• Wharepapa Arthur Range – from Mount Star through to the Twins
• Walking track to Flanagans Hut

The search will involve the use of Recco detecting equipment.

Evans said police wanted to hear from anyone with whom police haven’t spoken who was in the Baton/Ellis River area from the afternoon of December 26, particularly anyone who was around Flanagan’s Hut.

Any sightings or information can be reported at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number P064981672.

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