Earlier today, friends said they were worried for the safety of Connor Purvis, 20, who had intended to climb Mount Huxley on or about December 30, descending down the Huxley River South branch.
His failure to return has sparked concern among people who know him.
In an update this evening police said about 50 people had taken part in the search today, "focused on the upper South Temple Valley, Mt Huxley and the Huxley River South Branch, both on foot and via helicopter".
"We remain closely connected with Connor's family and we continue to feel for them, and support them, as our search efforts continue."
"This technology is often used to locate people lost in the outdoors, and can detect items such as headtorches, cellphones and other items."
They said they wanted to hear from anyone who had climbed Mt Huxley recently.
Mr Purvis, who works at Dunedin bike shop Bike House, is a cornet player in the Kaikorai Metropolitan Brass.
The former Otago Boys' High School student was described by a friend as "a really friendly guy" who frequently goes tramping.
Bike House shared its concern on social media that Mr Purvis had not returned from his tramp and asked for anyone with information to contact police.
Specialist search teams working today included Wānaka Canyon and Drone teams, the Dunedin Cliff rescue team, and a number of Land Search and Rescue teams.
"Police want to thank the Ōmārama and wider Mackenzie community, along with the Ōmārama volunteer fire brigade for their outstanding support of the search effort.
"We are also grateful for the efforts of the Ōamaru, Ōmārama, Twizel and Dunedin Land Search and Rescue groups, who are working in difficult and rugged terrain."
Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 105 and reference file 260102/2266.
- Allied Media
