Police have paused the search in the Mt Holdsworth area for Michael McGregor, who has been missing for more than a week.
McGregor was last seen at the Rocky Lookout on Mt Holdsworth, northeast of Wellington, on 31 July.
He failed to return from a walk.
In a statement, police said yesterday was the final day of the search and they were now working to complete other inquiries.
"It's expected that a cadaver dog search will take place in one to two weeks' time, and with these at our disposal we believe there is a solid chance of finding Michael."