No sign for missing tramper

An aerial search of the Kahurangi National Park has failed to locate any sign of missing tramper Alistair Levy.

A fine break in the weather this afternoon was the first opportunity since Boxing Day for the Nelson Marlborough rescue helicopter to search for Levy .

The 54-year-old Palmerston North teacher has not been seen or heard from since December 23, when he sent a text message from the summit of Mount Owen.

Helicopter staff said their search focused on the mid-section of Sunrise Ridge, the southern flank of Mount Owen today.

Police found Levy's mountain bike at the Kohatu Cafe in the Motueka Valley last week.

It is believed he intended to tramp through from Mount Owen and use the bike to get back to his vehicle.

He was planning to meet up with his wife and family in Christchurch for Christmas.

Levy is believed to be carrying a purple and black backpack. He did not have an emergency locator beacon with him.

Source: TVNZ