The brother of missing Christchurch builder Michael McGrath is appealing for help to find him, saying they are desperate to get him home.
Michael McGrath Photo: NZ Police
Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney and Mr McGrath's brother, Simon, held a media briefing in the city this afternoon.
His brother's disappearance nearly two weeks ago was completely out of character, he said.
"Michael lived alone, he enjoyed his work as a builder," he said.
His family and friends were desperate to get him home, Simon said, and he pleaded for members of the public to contact police with any sightings of the 49-year-old.
"Someone could have some sort of information which will help police, it might appear trivial but it may be the piece of the puzzle we need to solve this mystery," he said.
Simon McGrath, the brother of missing Christchurch builder Michael McGrath Photo: RNZ / Maja Burry
In particular, Mr Sweeney said, police wanted to hear from anyone who saw Michael cycling in the Halswell area between Sunday 21 May and Tuesday 23 May.
They had released a picture of Mr McGrath's blue mountain bike, in the hope someone saw him on it.
Police want to hear from anyone who saw Michael McGrath cycling near Halswell. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police
Police also released this photo of the missing man's helmet. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police
He was last seen at his home in Halswell on Sunday 21 May.
Police raided two houses, also in Halswell, earlier this week as part of the investigation, and have forensically examined some vehicles.
They had also spoken to a number of people of interest, Mr Sweeney said.
Police would be conducting a "pretty large" search around Sabys Road in Halswell over the weekend, with the help of both officers and members of the public, he said.
"The search is scheduled to commence from tomorrow in the hope of gathering any evidence that may help us locate Michael."
Mr Sweeney said again today that they still hoped to find Mr McGrath alive.