Police search for missing man

Taupo police are looking for a missing man.

Leighton Kerry Grant, 35, left Taupo on Friday and was due back by 6pm on Saturday. He was driving a late model white Suzuki Vitara.

Senior Constable Barry Shepherd of the Taupo police said Mr Grant was thought to have been heading for Tongariro National Park, but could now be anywhere in the North Island.

Mr Shepherd said police had found Mr Grant's car at Hallets Bay, just south of Hatepe, which is half way between Taupo and Turangi. The car had been spotted by man staying at Hatepe on holiday.

Police have started a search in the surrounding bush area and lake edge, but so far have not found anymore signs of Mr Grant.

Mr Shepherd said the search would continue today.

He asked the public to keep an eye out for Mr Grant and anyone with information should contact police on (07) 377 9309.