Connor Purvis went missing near Lake Ōhau. “[We] wish to extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family of Connor Purvis on the tragic loss of Connor,” a statement said. Connor Purvis intended to climb Mt Huxley in the Southern Alps and descend via the Huxley River South Branch. Photo / NZ PoliceHowever, he failed to return as expected, prompting what police earlier said was a “significant search effort”, using drones, helicopters and land search and rescue teams. Drones, helicopters and land search and rescue teams searched for the missing tramper for almost a week.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 07, 2026 20:25 UTC