A large-scale search is under way for a 20-year-old tramper missing in the Mount Huxley area near Lake Ōhau, with Police appealing to the public for information.

Connor Purvis was last known to be tramping in the area after intending to climb Mount Huxley on or about December 30, descending via the Huxley River South Branch. When he failed to return, concerns were raised and a coordinated search effort was launched.

Police Search and Rescue teams are leading the operation, supported by Land Search and Rescue volunteers from Omarama, Oamaru and Dunedin, as well as the Department of Conservation alpine rescue team from Aoraki/Mt Cook. Air support is being provided by Heliventures in Oamaru and The Helicopter Line at Mt Cook.

IMAGE: peakery.com/

Otago Coastal Search and Rescue coordinator Sergeant Matt Sheat said teams had been searching huts and campsites throughout the area but had not yet located any sign of Connor.

“We ask anyone who has climbed Mt Huxley or has been tramping or hunting in the Huxley River South Branch between December 28 and January 2 to make contact with Police if they haven’t already,” Sergeant Sheat said.

“We also want to hear from anyone who may have seen or spoken to Connor in the South Temple, Ahuriri or Huxley valleys in that same timeframe.”

Connor is described as having red hair and a handlebar moustache.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police online, or by calling 105 and quoting reference number 260102/2266.

PHOTO: Supplied / NZ Police