The search for missing British tramper Eli Sweeting, originally from Bristol, has been suspended.
The 25-year-old was reported missing on 4 May after failing to return home from a hike up Mitre Peak, New Zealand.
Acting Southern District Commander said this afternoon they made the "difficult" decision today to pause search efforts in Milford Sound for a tramper missing since last Sunday.
"We have been supporting the tramper’s family and we know this is difficult news for them to hear at what has been an incredibly distressing time."
Police remained in frequent contact with the family.
"While the search has now been paused, we will be reviewing our efforts and looking to see if there is anything further we can do."
In the last six days police had carried out extensive searches in an extremely dangerous and challenging terrain.
"We have focussed on searching the route used by climbers as well as an aerial search of the entire area using two helicopters and thermal imagery."
Additionally a drone had also been deployed.
A number of groups have assisted in this search which include: Land Search and Rescue groups from Southland and Otago, Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue Team support by a member of the Mount Cook Alpine Rescue team, two search and rescue dogs, Southern Lakes Helicopters, Heliworks Queenstown and Real and the Dunedin Cliff Rescue team were deployed along with a Dunedin Surf Lifesaving team.
Many individuals and organisations in Milford Sound contributed hugely in supporting the searchers.
Our thoughts are with the missing man’s family at this difficult time, police said.
