Police have confirmed they are continuing to search for a man who disappeared in Mt Holdsworth almost three months ago, although hopes he’ll be found alive are fading.
Carterton man Grant Freer was last seen on November 19.
Three days later, on November 22, the 56-year-old’s car was found parked near the entrance of the Tararua Forest Park.
“Police Search and Rescue were notified and discovered that when he left, he likely did not want to be found.
“A Search and Rescue [SAR] operation was launched involving Land SAR, dog teams, helicopters, and thermal imaging drones over several days and weeks following his disappearance.
“To date, there is no information to suggest Grant is or isn’t in the forest park.”
Police confirmed the Wellington District Police Search and Rescue Squad was in the Mt Holdsworth area again on Tuesday searching for Freer.
But, so far, to no avail.
Police said it had been a challenging search with little specific information available that would narrow the search area.
“While police and Search and Rescue will and have done everything they can to find Grant, sadly, the longer a person is missing, the less likely it is for that person to be found alive.”
Anyone with information that could help find Freer, can contact police on 105 or online via www.police.govt.nz/use-105 using reference file number 221123/2813.
Thanks to all for your efforts in searching for Grant. He has many friends and family who miss him dearly and would love to re-connect.
We greatly appreciate the efforts of Police and the SARS teams, along with Victim support. Special thanks to Grant’s close friends for your support.
Thinking of others in a similar situation and those affected in other challenging situations.
Kindness and being helpful go a long way!
Godbless.