The search area on Tuesday. Photo: NZ Police
Police fear worsening weather at Milford Sound may hamper efforts to find a missing tramper.
A large-scale search and rescue operation has continued in Milford Sound, for a man who has been missing since Sunday.
The solo tramper failed to return after a planned day trip to climb Mitre Peak, sparking a search and rescue operation shortly before midnight Monday.
Detective Tracy Ward said a large number of resources have been working through arduous terrain, assisted by helicopter crews.
"There is also a huge amount of local support being provided by tourism operator Real NZ at Milford Sound.
Roughly 60 volunteers, 10 Police staff and the various helicopter and tourism staff are working hard to find the missing man," Ward said.
Ward said helicopter searches began on Monday and carried on into the night, before resuming this morning.
"Land Search and Rescue field and dog teams have been in the search area since Monday morning, as well as alpine cliff rescue teams due to the incredibly steep terrain in the area," Ward said.
"We are looking at a wide search area in a very rugged part of New Zealand."
While search teams are yet to find any items that could help narrow the search area, Ward said they are remaining positive.
"The man we are looking for is experienced in the outdoors and we believe he had suitable clothing and provisions, which can make all the difference," Ward said.
"We are in contact with his next of kin, but at this stage are not in a position to release further details about him."
Police are expecting a deterioration in the weather on Tuesday night that may affect ongoing search efforts.
Police have spoken to a number of people who encountered the man in the vicinity of Mitre Peak on Sunday 4 May.
Ward said Police still needed to hear from anyone who was in the area on Sunday if they haven't already spoken with Police.
Please contact Police by making a report online, or by calling 105, referencing the event number P062448221.
