Police search and rescue personnel with the help of the police Eagle helicopter are searching a Northland bush area near Pipiwai for a missing man.
The police Eagle helicopter. Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas
In a statement police said Kukama Waa was reported missing last night, after being last seen in the bush area near Pipiwai yesterday morning.
Waa is hearing impaired and also has physical and mental impairments.
Police describe Waa as Māori, approximately 5 foot 8 (172cm), of large build, bald and he recently lost one of his arms.
He was last seen wearing blue-coloured tracksuit pants and a red shirt.
Police said they have serious concerns for Waa's welfare and are working with the local Pipiwai community to try and find him.
The police Eagle helicopter has carried out an aerial search of the bush area and police are asking local residents to check their properties for him.
Anyone who may have seen Waa is asked to contact police immediately on 111 and quote event number P049210284.