Weather limits search for missing tramper at Milford Sound
The tramper was missing since going on a day trip on Sunday.
Photo:
RNZ / Tess Brunton
Weather conditions are limiting the search for a tramper missing at Milford Sound.
A ground search was continuing for the man on Wednesday but poor weather was preventing helicopters from flying.
The solo tramper failed to return after a planned day trip to climb Mitre Peak on Sunday, sparking a
search and rescue operation
shortly before midnight Monday.
Police said search teams were mindful of the tricky terrain and weather warnings, which could potentially hamper search efforts.
An orange level rain warning for Fiordland comes into force from 10pm on Wednedsay.
On Tuesday, 60 volunteers, 10 police personnel and helicopter staff had been searching for the man, with local support from tourism operator Real NZ. By evening, search teams had not found any items that could help narrow the search area, Detective Tracy Ward said.
Land Search and Rescue field and dog teams had been in the area, along with alpine cliff rescue teams to search in the steep terrain.
The man was experienced in the outdoors and believed he had suitable clothing and provisions, Ward said.
Police had spoken to a number of people who encountered the man in the vicinity of Mitre Peak on Sunday, but have appealed for any others to contact them. They could contact police by making a report online, or by calling 105, referencing the event number P062448221.
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