On Thursday morning Christchurch Police were advised that a man's body was located at a rural Woodend address.
Subsequent enquiries have failed to locate a body at this time, however, evidence of a very serious assault has been found at the Jelfs Road address.
Police are continuing to search the extensive rural property and have serious concerns for the wellbeing of Oliver Johnston.
Anyone with information about an assault on Mr Johnston or details of his whereabouts since last weekend is urged to contact Christchurch Police on (03) 363 4872 immediately.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre