Searchers fail to find missing man

Helicopter searches have failed to find deaf Greymouth man Peter Bell, who has been missing for three weeks.

Mr Bell, 54, has not been seen since he discharged himself from Greymouth Hospital on June 3, The Press reported.

Long-time friend Robbie Barrow said police had searched a remote South Westland surfing spot and nearby beaches by helicopter without success.

Bell, a keen surfer, was drawn to secluded beaches and could spend many days there, he said.

"He has disappeared for a week at a time before, but this is totally out of character," Mr Barrow said.

"We thought he might be over a bank in South Westland, but now we are wondering if he possibly does not want to be found."

Bell was last seen driving his green Nissan Vanette, registration TL5469.

Senior Sergeant Allyson Ealam, of Greymouth police, said a national alert was out for Bell's vehicle, but his disappearance was not considered suspicious.

- NZPA