Wife remains upbeat as search continues for hunter

The wife of a hunter missing in a section of rugged Urewera National Park high country since Saturday said she remains convinced he is alive.

The Air Force was joining the hunt for Brent Williamson, 48, of Te Puke, today.

Mr Williamson failed to meet his hunting companion four days ago.

His wife, Glenda, was at the Lion's Hut in the National Park yesterday where an extensive search and rescue operation began at first light.

She said: "I know he's out there and OK. But it's still hard playing the waiting game."

The couple's four children, a son and three daughters, were also waiting anxiously. Their son was hoping to join the search today.

Area commander Inspector Pat Tasker said an Air Force Iroquois helicopter and support team, as well volunteer searchers are covering "very steep" terrain for any sign of Mr Williamson.

Mr Tasker said 20 searchers were out yesterday focusing on the Otane river catchment, but he was unable to say how many would be searching today.

He said concerns were mounting for Mr Williamson, because he was not prepared for a long stay in the open.

"It was jolly cold overnight."

Mr Tasker thought if Mr Williamson's food supply had not already run out, it would be extremely low by now.

Mr Williamson was last seen on Saturday morning.

He was due to meet up with his hunting companion later that day at a rendezvous point, but he failed to show.

The pair had arranged to be picked up by helicopter at midday on Monday.

Mr Tasker said his hunting companion had joined in the search.

- DAILY POST (ROTORUA), NZPA