Search for missing Invercargill boy and stepfather hindered by weather

Mike Zhao-Beckenridge, 11, and John Beckenridge have been missing since March 1, and police have been searching Curio bay in Southland since pieces of My Beckenridge's car washed up earlier this week. Photo / Otago Daily Times

The Police National Dive Squad has left Curio Bay, as weather conditions continue to hamper the search for clues to the disappearance of an Invercargill boy and his stepfather.

Mike Zhao-Beckenridge, 11, and John Beckenridge have been missing since March 1, and police have been searching Curio bay in Southland since pieces of My Beckenridge's car washed up earlier this week.

An underwater camera had identified a large amount of metal where the car was thought to be resting.

Police plan to send divers down when conditions become clearer.

Southland area commander Inspector Kelvin Lloyd earlier said he hoped the vehicle was a red herring and Michael and his stepfather were safe and well somewhere.

Michael was 1.65m tall, of solid build and of Asian descent. Mr Beckenridge was 1.75m tall, of medium build and of Swedish descent.

Mr Beckenridge was also known as John Robert Lundh, Knut Goran Roland Lundh, or John Bradford.

Anyone with information that might assist in locating the pair should contact the Southern District Command Centre on 03 471-5002.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

- NZME