Body of missing hunter found

Search and rescue teams have today recovered the body of a missing hunter in freezing conditions in Mid Canterbury's Clyde River Valley.

Alan Joseph Wilkinson, 50, from Levin, had been hunting alone and was last seen on Friday morning, said Canterbury search and rescue coordinator Sergeant Ryan O'Rourke.

Following a search which involved three helicopters, 40 search and rescue staff with search dog teams, Mr Wilkinson's body was found on a steep and slippery slope and recovered by a specialist alpine and cliff rescue team from Christchurch.

Conditions in the search area were poor, with cold temperatures, snow, and poor visibility.

The terrain was mountainous and there was snow and ice on the ground. More snow was expected to hit the area later today and the searchers were pleased to locate the man, given the conditions, Mr O'Rourke said.

The cause of death was unknown but has been reported to the coroner.

- NZPA