A search is under way in Arthur's Pass National Park following the discovery of the vehicle belonging to missing Christchurch man Peter John Crowther.
The vehicle, a 1996 Mitsubishi Galant, was found by a member of the public in remote bush near the Mount White bridge, close to the Hawdon Shelter, yesterday afternoon.
Police were notified of the discovery at around 9.30am this morning.
A search team comprising three police dogs and handlers, six Police Search and Rescue unit members and 15 volunteers is currently conducting a search of an area around the vehicle.
Constable Gavin Jeffs of Christchurch CIB says Mr Crowther's vehicle appears to have been at the site for some time. Nothing of significance has been located inside the car.
"The vehicle is in a remote location, and was concealed in an area of bush," he says.
"Although we have now located the vehicle, we would like to hear from anyone who may have seen the car in this area, or on roads into the area, or who can help us to establish its movements."
Mr Crowther was last seen at about 4pm on Friday 14 June at his workplace in Addington. He has not been in contact with family since that time, and no sightings have been reported.
Anyone with information about the vehicle's movements is asked to contact Christchurch Police on (03) 3637400.
ENDS