Missing Swede less equipped than thought

Hans Christian Tornmarck went hunting on May 12. Photo: NZ Police
Hans Christian Tornmarck went hunting on May 12. Photo: NZ Police

The search was continuing today in mountainous country behind Karangarua for a man now five days overdue from a hunting trip.

Search efforts are focused on the upper reaches of Regina Creek after they found the last known campsite of Swedish national Christian Tornmarck, who failed to keep a rendezvous last week.

A campsite with Mr Tornmarck's tent and sleeping bag was found at the weekend in the high altitude area near Regina Creek, above the Douglas Valley route, a tributary to the upper Karangarua River.

Mr Tornmarck was originally described as being well equipped and experienced for his week-long hunting trip.

However, police confirmed this morning he was not carrying a personal locator beacon.

Area commander Inspector Mel Aitken said police were, however, still proceeding on the basis that Mr Tornmarck would be found alive.

"At this stage, based on the information we have gathered, we are still treating this as a search," Mrs Aitken said.

Police launched a formal search on Friday morning after a preliminary check on Thursday night failed to find any sign of the overdue hunter.

Several search teams, including land search and rescue volunteers, a tracker dog and and alpine team spent the weekend combing the area, described as "tricky terrain".

Mr Tornmarck has been living in Central Otago. His family in Sweden have been notified of the search and are being kept up to date on developments.

Police would still like to hear from anyone who has been in the Karangarua area in the past week. Those with any information or sightings are asked to contact Greymouth police on 768 1600.

By Brendon McMahon 

 

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