Search underway near Upper Hutt for overdue motorcyclist

An extensive Police search is underway in the Akatarawa Forest Park area for a missing Lower Hutt man, who failed to return home from a motorbike ride yesterday afternoon.

Wellington Police District Operations Manager Inspector Mike Wright says Police were alerted about 7-30pm last night, after the 35 year-old failed to return home at the expected time.

“Police Search and Rescue staff have been out searching overnight and we have now ramped up the search. We’re being assisted by Greater Wellington Regional Council parks staff and Upper Hutt Community Rescue members.”

“We’re focusing on a large area in and around the Akatarawa Forest Park area. A helicopter has done an overhead search earlier this morning, however we haven’t been able to locate this man.”

Inspector Wright says there were a number of keen trampers, trailbike riders and four wheel drive enthusiasts in the area yesterday, given the fine weather and someone may have seen this man on their journey.

“He’s described as a Caucasian of average height and solid build, dressed in black clothing, riding a green Kawasaki KLX 400R motorbike, similar to the one below. We’re urging anyone who may have seen him to contact Police immediately on either (04) 381 2000 or on the free phone Crimestoppers line 0800 555 111.”