After four days without searching due to poor weather, police and search and rescue experts today conducted an aerial search of Mt Earnslaw for Mr Bell.
The search was unsuccessful.
"Tragically, our efforts today focussed on a possible recovery operation without success," Acting Senior Sergeant Steve Watt said today.
"We extend our sympathy to Simon's family."
The 33-year-old Wellington engineer was on a mission to be the first to climb the "100 great peaks" of New Zealand, and Mt Earnslaw was number 60.
Almost four weeks ago he told friends he was setting out to scale the 2819m peak in Mount Aspiring National Park.
He has not been seen since.
Snr Sgt Watt said police were grateful for the information received about Mr Bell's possible location.
"In practical terms, without new information and given the extreme and vast terrain in the area, we are unable to search further for Simon at this time."
Police have informed Mr Bell's family and his disappearance will be referred to the coroner.
