New information in Michael McGrath case sends police search to Ellesmere, Lincoln and Halswell

Police are still looking for Michael Craig McGrath, 49, who was last seen on May 21 at his home in Halswell. Photo / Supplied

Christchurch police will begin searching parts of Ellesmere, Lincoln and Halswell tomorrow for clues about the disappearance of Michael McGrath.

McGrath, 49, was last seen at his house on Checketts Ave in Halswell on May 21.

Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney said the new search phase was based on information and sightings related to McGrath's disappearance.

Police are also continuing to pick through rubbish at the Kate Valley Landfill. They expect to be there a few more weeks, having already searched through around 2000 tonnes of rubbish.

"Operation Renovation continues as a major investigation for the Canterbury CIB and the investigation team are committed and driven to solve the case and bring some closure to Michael's family," Sweeney said.

The family and police are in close contact, he said.

A dedicated phone line has been set up for the McGrath case, dubbed Operation Renovation. Anyone with information that could help in the search can call 0800 FINDMICHAEL (0800 346 364) or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.