Search for missing mountain climber

Missing tramper Simon Bell, of Wanaka. Picture / ODT

A search effort is underway for a mountain climber who went missing three weeks ago.

Wanaka man Simon Bell, 33, was last seen on January 13.

Mr Bell told friends he was planning to climb Mt Earnslaw, a 2837m high mountain near the Otago-West Coast border.

Yesterday Mr Bell's former partner reported him missing. Police later found Mr Bell's car at Muddy Creek, near the start of the Mt Earnslaw track, and launched the search today.

Police were using a helicopter to travel into the remote area and checking huts including Esquilant Bivvy Hut, Rock Bivvy and the hut known as Earnslaw Hut.

Acting Senor Sergeant Steve Watt of Queenstown Police said Mr Bell was well-prepared but there were concerns for his safety because he'd been missing so long.

However, police said Mr Bell had appropriate clothing and climbing equipment, including a mobile phone, tracker and personal locator beacon. The beacon had not been activated.

Police said Mr Bell was 190cm or 6-foot-2 inches tall, of light build and wore glasses.

Mr Watt asked anyone with information on Mr Bell to phone Queenstown Police on 03 441 1600.