"UPDATE – Tongariro search, day 10"

Statement attributable to Senior Sergeant Tony Jeurissen

The search for two men missing in Tongariro National Park entered day ten today.

Since the pair went missing on Saturday 12 August the Police co-ordinated search has included specialist search teams, hundreds of volunteers, the Police dive squad and a Police dog trained in search and rescue techniques.

All search activity to date has been unsuccessful in finding the pair.

Today a karakia led by Ngāti Tūwharetoa was held at the search site and a rāhui was placed on the area.

Family of the missing men were also in attendance.

The rāhui is being placed on the area between Mangamate Stream to the north, Makahikatoa Stream to the south, the Desert Road to the west and Tongariro River to the east.

Signs will be erected informing the public of the rāhui and to stay out of the designated area.

Placing of rāhui is a cultural practice that will protect the site from disturbance.

The rāhui will stay in place until lifted by Ngati Tūwharetoa.

The search for the two men is now entering a new phase.

All information gathered through the search will be re-assessed and this will guide the way forward for the search.

Police are in close contact with the whanau of the two men and remain determined to bring these men home.

Throughout the search the ongoing support from Ngāti Tūwharetoa has been invaluable and is greatly appreciated.

Police Iwi Liaison Officers are continuing to support the families.

ENDS

© Scoop Media