6 May 2025

Land Search and Rescue joins search for missing Masterton man

8:20 pm on 6 May 2025
missing Masterton man John Rafferty

Missing Masterton man John Rafferty. Photo: NZ Police

A Land Search and Rescue team has joined the search for missing Masterton man John Rafferty, who was last seen on Sunday.

Sergeant Anthony Matheson said it's possible Rafferty, 74, is staying with a friend, but police and his family want to know he's safe.

"A reasonable amount of time has passed, and John doesn't have his cell phone or wallet. A search team has been out looking for him, and a helicopter also helped us search several areas today," Sergeant Matheson said.

"We are really keen to know that he's safe."

missing Masterton man John Rafferty

Rafferty was last seen at Masterton Railway Station about midday on Sunday. Photo: NZ Police

Rafferty was last seen at Masterton Railway Station about midday on Sunday. He did not board a train and left on foot about 20 minutes later. The CCTV image shows him on the station platform.

He was wearing sweatpants, black shoes, and a blue jacket with 'NASA' written on the back.

Rafferty may have left the Masterton area, and anyone who sees him is asked to contact Police via 111. Information after the fact can be provided online at 105. Please use the reference number P062453320.