Police search bush for missing man

Gisborne police are searching a large area of bush as concerns grow over missing man Simon Eckersley.

The 32-year-old was last seen at 8.30am on Thursday near Ballance St on the outskirts of the city, having made his way from the Wainui Beach settlement, where he was spotted two hours earlier.

Sergeant Greg Lexmond said he was concerned Mr Eckersley could be in a large area of bush about 1.5km from where he was last seen.

Volunteers and search and rescue personnel were today searching the area.

Mr Eckersley was likely to be nearby given his mental state and the lack of a recent confirmed sighting, Mr Lexmond said.

"He was despondent and confused so I wouldn't expect him to get into a vehicle."

Mr Eckersley's car was retrieved by police last week after being abandoned at Makorori Hill lookout in Gisborne.

An information bus has been set up near the area Mr Eckersley was last seen for members of the public to report possible sightings.

Police have also set up a mannequin dressed as Mr Eckersley, who was last seen wearing pyjama pants and a brown hooded top , and conducted a letter drop calling for anyone with information to get in touch.

Mr Eckersley is described as a medium built Caucasian, about 1.85m tall with blue eyes, short to medium length hair, who speaks with an Australian accent.

- NZPA