A search and rescue team approximately 15 strong is embarking on a search of bush near Woodville as concern grows for a missing man.
64-year-old John Campbell was last seen by family at his home on the outskirts of Pahiatua at 6.45am yesterday (Tuesday, 1 February). He appeared to be leaving as normal to head to work in Pahiatua.
When he failed to return home yesterday evening, family made various enquiries and when they were still unable to locate him they contacted police around midnight.
Enquiries have since revealed that Mr Campbell's white Toyota Starlet car has been parked at the intersection of Woodlands Road and Oxford Road in Woodville since approximately 7am yesterday morning.
Mr Campbell doesn't know anyone in Woodville and has no reason to be there. He is in good physical health, has no known medical conditions and his disappearance is completely out of character.
A roadside search involving Police and a tracking dog has been ongoing throughout the morning. A larger team of Police and volunteers from Palmerston North and the Tararua has now been pulled together to search bush and local farms. Around 10 local people have also offered to assist and will be utilised in the search.
Overnight the weather was mild, dry and overcast but this morning the cloud level has dropped and rain has set in increasing concerns for Mr Campbell.
He is approximately 175 cm tall, skinny build and he has greying hair short back and sides. He was last seen wearing grey drill shorts and John Bull steel toe-capped work boots.
Anyone with any information regarding the whereabouts of John Campbell is asked to contact Palmerston North Police on 06 351 3600 or Sergeant Andy Brooke Palmerston North Search and Rescue on 027 499 0180.
Media enquires are to be directed to Communication Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256
