KEY POINTS:
An extensive search for an elderly English tramper missing for a week in the Mt Aspiring National Park has been called off for now, but may resume if fresh information comes to light.
Derek Hawkins, 72, who suffers from angina, was last seen on the morning of March 29 heading out on a planned four-hour walk to Crucible Lake in the national park's Siberia Valley.
When his main haversack was discovered abandoned in the Siberia Hut, more than 30 search and rescue personnel using dogs and helicopters searched for four days.
Specialist search teams returned to the bush yesterday, but Wanaka police search and rescue co-ordinator Sergeant Aaron Nicholson told NZPA today no trace of Dr Hawkins could be found.
Police would now undertake a "continuous limited search" for the retired Sheffield University lecturer, who was in New Zealand for a seven-week holiday.
"We're adopting a process where if we get any more information, or any clues or any other sightings by trampers, hunters or people flying in the area, we'll respond," Mr Nicholson said.
Dr Hawkins had visited his sister and a nephew in Katikati, northwest of Tauranga, for 10 days and intended to spend the rest of his time walking in various parts of the country.
A metallurgist, he had spent 40 years as a lecturer at Sheffield University before retiring in 2001.
He was diagnosed with angina 10 years ago, but his family said he remained fit and active, enjoying walking and playing tennis.
His wife, Shirley, 69, and son, Michael, 37, told The Star newspaper in South Yorkshire this week they remained hopeful he would be found alive, but were "prepared for the worst".
Mr Nicholson said today that after a week in rugged bush-covered country it was unlikely Dr Hawkins could have survived.
"He's got little chance of survival after that time," he said.
Search and rescue groups from Wanaka and Queenstown were rescheduling a planned exercise in the Queenstown area to the Siberia Valley on April 13 and 14 in a further attempt to locate Dr Hawkins' body.
- NZPA
