Army assist police in search for missing man

Whitu Teaola Hansen, not seen since November 24. Photo/Supplied

Police and army personnel have continued searching a Linton property to identify any evidence that will help them locate Whitu Hansen.

The search for Mr Hansen, 48, became a homicide investigation on Tuesday.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Harrison said the search for the missing Wanganui man is expected to run into the coming week, given the extensive size of both the section and number of buildings on the section.

"I want to thank the community for their patience and understanding with our continued presence at the property. It's crucial to our investigation that we complete a meticulous examination and gather any potential evidence.

"Given the large size of the property and its rural location we received assistance from the New Zealand Army in searching the scene. They finished up searching yesterday and I want to thank them for their support in this investigation," Mr Harrison said.

Inquiries in both the Manawatu and Wanganui regions to determine Mr Hansen's last movements were ongoing, he said.

Police staff from Wanganui and Taranaki are also assisting with the search and six staff were at the scene yesterday.

"As I have previously emphasised, we still want to speak to anyone that may have any information in relation to vehicle sightings of the primer coloured Ford ute that Mr Hansen drove and of Mr Hansen himself," Mr Harrison said.

Anyone with information should contact Detective Dave Wilson on 06 213 9595. Information can also be provided anonymously via the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.