Police to search river for missing man

The Waikato River in flood. Photo / Christine Cornege

Police say they will search the Waikato River as soon as its level drops for a Ngaruawahia man missing for six weeks.

John Waka Graham, 48, was last seen driving from the Waikato town after attending a tangi at the Turangawaewae Marae on September 8.

Senior Constable Norm McIntosh said police held grave concerns for his safety and appealed for any information as to his whereabouts.

Mr Graham walked with a limp because of recent surgery on his right leg and required medication to help ease the pain, which would be agonising if not taken.

He said Mr Graham was a well respected member of the community and a dedicated family man.

Mr McIntosh said police would be searching the Waikato River as soon as its levels dropped, which would hopefully be soon.

Mr Graham was last seen driving his green 2003 model Ford Falcon car, registration number BMB893 which could be the key to finding him, Mr McIntosh said.

Anyone with information should contact the Ngaruawahia police immediately.

- NZPA