Search for missing man steps up

A police search is under way in Paraparaumu today for missing Kapiti Coast man Raymond Piper.

Leading the search, Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Oxnam said police had unsubstantiated information that Mr Piper, 23, had been the victim of foul play.

He was last seen on May 15 at the home of his former partner Hanna Lark in Eatwell Avenue, Paraparaumu. She returned home after having breakfast to find he had gone, leaving behind his cash card, driver's licence and extra clothing.

Mr Oxnam said the Wellington Search and Rescue (SAR) team and specialist search team, assisted by members of Wellington Land SAR, were searching an area near Eatwell Avenue.

"Once this is completed, an area canvass will be carried out near Raymond's parents home on Main Road North, Paekakariki," he said.

Police now have more than 25 investigators from throughout the Wellington police district working on the case.

Mr Oxnam would not elaborate on the suggestion of foul play.

"I do not wish to contaminate potential witnesses and I will not be elaborating any further on this information."

By the end of today police should have a mock up of the clothing Raymond was last seen wearing.

- NZPA