Police Continue Search For Missing Pukehina Resident

Police are continuing their search for a missing 71-year-old Pukehina man, Ross Weir.

Weir went missing from his Pukehina Parade home, near Motunau Park, in the early hours of Wednesday 19 August.

Bay of Plenty Police Search and Rescue Manager, Inspector Phil Gillbanks, said Weir has not been seen or heard from since.

71-year-old Pukehina man, Ross Weir, went missing from his Pukehina Parade home on Wednesday 19 August. IMAGE // New Zealand Police 

He said the search is focused on both land and water, and at this stage there is no evidence located that can assist in determining his whereabouts.

“Approximately 700 residential properties on the Pukehina Spit are being searched by specialist teams, along with the surrounding coastline and estuary areas,” Gillbanks said.

The Police Eagle helicopter, Police Search and Rescue and Fire and Emergency New Zealand drones, Surf Life Saving IRBs, jet skis and ATVs, Coastguard vessels and fixed-wing aircraft, NZ Land Search and Rescue volunteers, have been deployed to aid in the search.

“Police Search and Rescue staff from across the Bay of Plenty and other Police personnel are conducting extensive area canvass enquiries.”

Gilbanks said police would like to acknowledge and thank the volunteers who have given up time to support the search effort.

Around 700 residential properties on the Pukehina Spit are being searched, along with the surrounding coastline and estuary areas. IMAGE // New Zealand Police

Police ask anyone who has seen Weir or who may have information that could assist in the search to contact Police via 105 using reference number P067354523, or lodge an anonymous report via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.