Tourist missing on Arthur's Pass hike

Arthur's Pass village and Otira Gorge in the middle of the Southern Alps. Photo / NZ Herald

A search is underway after a woman went missing on a mountain hike.

The French tourist known only as "Celine" was two days late in returning from a tramp on Route 12 in Arthur's Pass National Park, according to Canterbury Police and the Department of Conservation.

"Celine is understood to have left a note with her sleeping bag on 8th December 2014 at Arthurs Pass Backpackers saying she planned to tramp Route 12 (Cass Saddle) and expected to return in three days time to pick it up," Canterbury Police said.

Yesterday, Canterbury Police Search and Rescue checked huts along the route where it appeared Celine made hut entries with a Canadian tourist called Genevieve Forcier.

But at the last hut checked, only Ms Forcier made an entry, and it was not clear if the two women left the hut together.

Canterbury Police were keen to talk to Ms Forcier, to help confirm Celine's movements. Canterbury Police had also left messages with Ms Forcier's family.

"This is a timely reminder for anyone planning a tramp to let someone know where you are going, when you intend returning and when you are back," a Canterbury Police spokeswoman said.

"If you're staying in a hut always write your intentions in the hut book. Police also recommend carrying a personal locator beacon when you're heading into the mountains...so that you can call for assistance if you get into difficulties. Always check the weather forecast before you set off and take enough supplies in case your return is delayed."

Police said Celine, Ms Forcier, or anybody who knew their whereabout should call police on 03 363 7670 or message them through the Christchurch Police Facebook page.

People could also provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.