Dive squad joins search for men lost in Tongariro bush

Police spent today searching dense bush between Tree Trunk Gorge Rd and the Pillars of Hercules. Photo/Google Streetview

A dive squad will scour streams and creeks tomorrow as part of the search for two men who disappeared in Tongariro National Park.

The pair were last seen on Saturdaywhen they fled police in a stolen car before running into the bush.

Police later received a call from one of the men saying they were lost and cold.

Police have now spent five days searching for the pair. Inspector Kevin Taylor has said it would be a "significant miracle" if they were found alive.

Staff spent a gruelling day searching in tough conditions between Tree Trunk Gorge Rd and the Pillars of Hercules today.

But Senior Sergeant Tony Jeurissen said no more evidence had been found.

Tomorrow the Police National Dive Squad is expected to join the search, focusing on streams and creeks, Jeurissen said.

At the Taupo Police Station search base, all the information gathered so far is being evaluated. Police and Land Search and Rescue are assessing all areas covered until now "to re-task search efforts for tomorrow", he said.

Whanau received the latest information at a meeting in Turangi this afternoon, Jeurissen said.

"Police would like to acknowledge the exceptional assistance provided by representative members of Ngati Tuwharetoa.

"They have supported searchers and the mens' families throughout this distressing time."