Missing Wairarapa police dog Thames is facing a second night in the bush as the search for him enters a new phase.
Search and Rescue team members including volunteer SAR members have been pulled out of the Mt Holdsworth area west of Carterton tonight to rest and reassess the situation.
Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson, officer in charge of the Wellington Police District dog section, said the SAR teams and civilian volunteers have done a great job in combing the high probability spots in the search area. Despite their efforts Thames still hasn’t been seen, and there’s been no trace of him in huts.
It was important however to bring the searchers out tonight to rest up, review the search patterns of the last two days and plan the next phase.
Tomorrow’s search will be undertaken only by dog handlers, some of whom have volunteered on their days off.
“We will still have a police dog section response capability across Wellington police district. Those handlers who have volunteered their help will focus on the bush area where Thames was last seen and the main tracks.
The Mt Holdsworth area is popular with trampers, hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts. People using the area, or living in rural areas bordering Mt Holdsworth, are asked to keep their eyes open for Thames, a three year old sable coloured German Shepherd and let police know if they see him.
“There’s been an awesome response from people on the ground, and messages of support and offers of help from the public,” he said. “We all want Thames found and back on the job with his handler helping keep people safe.
“It’s been a tough period for Thames’ handler and he definitely wants him back. The constable will be back on the search tomorrow with his colleagues.”
Ends
Media note: There will be a short stand-up media interview opportunity at 11am tomorrow at Masterton Police Station with Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson and with the constable who is Thames’ handler.
Media contact: Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson, mobile 021 190 9744 or Kaye Calder, Public Affairs, mobile 021 192 2915 or email: kaye.calder@police.govt.nz
