Ahuriri Valley SAR Update 4

Extensive ground searches in the Dingleburn Track area of the Ahuriri Valley today have not been able to locate missing Dunedin tramper, David Charles Palmer (53), or find any significant clues.

Mr Palmer went into the area on what was believed to be a three to four hour tramp on Saturday (5 May). A search for Mr Palmer has been underway since Sunday evening.

Today 14 teams of around 50-60 SAR volunteers from Central Otago, the Catlins, Twizel, Tekapo, Fairlie and Wanaka have combed the rugged and remote terrain in cold weather conditions. The terrain includes beech forest and bush line tussock up to about 1800 metres in altitude. Three dog teams also took part in the search.

Two helicopters, including the Airforce Iroquois, dropped ground search teams into the area. The NZ Fire Service Command truck has also assisted with communications.

Resources today have been concentrated around the Dingleburn Track in an area roughly where SAR risk management practice indicates that a person is most likely to be if they are off the track.

Police and SAR advisors say that they remain hopeful of finding Mr Palmer and are continuing to put in their best effort possible.

Police would like to acknowledge the significant support for the search from the local Ahuriri Valley community.

The search is expected to continue tomorrow.