KEY POINTS:
An elderly dementia sufferer who went missing in southeast Auckland yesterday has told family members by cellphone that his van is in a ditch.
Henry Alexander Saunders, 83, has not been seen since he headed out about 9am from Maraetai, east of Auckland, to a 10.30am appointment in Manukau City, about 30km to the southwest.
However, he rang family members early today to say that his white Ford Econovan registration number DNL614, which he was believed to be driving in the Takanini area, was in a ditch somewhere.
"The Police Eagle helicopter has flown over the area but was unable to locate the vehicle," Inspector Ian Brooker of the police northern communications centre said.
Mr Brooker said police were still seeking public help to locate Mr Saunders, a dementia sufferer who can appear confused when spoken to.
Mr Saunders is described as being of solid build, about 172cm tall, with wavy grey hair, balding on top. He was wearing a blue and white checked shirt under a navy blue jersey, creamy brown trousers and black shoes.
Anyone who has seen Mr Saunders or his vehicle is asked to contact the northern communications centre or the Howick police station.
- NZPA
