A large-scale search and rescue operation has continued today 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.
The alarm was raised promptly, and a search and rescue operation began immediately, shortly before midnight on 5 May.
Detective Tracy Ward says a large number of resources have been working through arduous terrain, assisted by helicopter crews.
The search is being supported by Land Search and Rescue teams from Fiordland, Caitlins and Southland, Southern Lakes Helicopters, Heli-Otago, Southland Amateur Radio Emergency Communications, a Wakatipu Land Search and Rescue tracking dog team, a Dunedin Land Search and Rescue air scent dog team, and Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue teams.
"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."
A Police incident management team is in place in Invercargill, supporting a forward command base at Milford Sound.
Detective 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. Real NZ has assisted the operation with marine vessels and support staff, as well as helping the search staff at the forward control base in Milford Sound.
"We are looking at a wide search area in a very rugged part of New Zealand. We have yet to find any items that could help narrow the search area, but we are remaining positive.
