Police have released a CCTV picture showing the last confirmed sighting of Alex Fisher as the search effort to locate the missing 10-year-old continues.
The footage shows Alex with his brother Eric at the Four Square store in Waitarere at approx 6.15pm on Monday evening.
"The public can really help us locate Alex by reporting any sightings of him or his brother Eric in or around the Waitarere area on Monday afternoon or evening," says Inspector Sarah Stewart, Manawatu Area Commander.
"We're also interesetd in any sightings of them prior to Monday afternoon.
"Did you see either Alex or Eric together or by themselves?
"As each hour goes by we grow more concerned about Alex, who was reported missing to us in the early hours of Tuesday morning."
"It is very important that the public reports any information which might assist us.
"We also want all residents in Waitarere to check their property, particularly garages and outbuildings, for anything unusual." said Ms Stewart.
The search operation through the Waitarere Forest has continued throughout the day, with up to 65 searchers combing through at times thick, difficult terrain.
An asthma inhaler and spacer and a pencil case belonging to Alex have been located in the forest, and police are assessing other items found to determine if they have any relevance to the search.
The search is likely to be suspended at darkness tonight and will resume in the morning as the forest conditions make a night-time search impractical.
Police will assess all information relating to the search to enable decisions to be made on the next phase of the search operation.
Statement from the family of Alex Fisher:
"We would like to thank all those involved in the search for our son, brother and cherished family member. We appreciate the efforts and support from friends, family members and the public. At this time we request that our privacy is respected as we gather together at this difficult time."
END
Media note there will be no further updates given tonight unless there are any significant developments in the search for Alex.
Issued by:
Grant Ogilvie
021 191 0005
