Search for missing Waiuku man intensifies

Lance Murphy (Police)
Lance Murphy (Police)

Fears are growing for the safety of missing Waiuku man Lance Murphy, with police now hunting someone else in connection to his disappearance.

Investigators now want to know about any sightings of Steve Gunbie, a man with a criminal history. Police warn he should not be approached.

Behind a few trees sits the property that threw up the latest clue in the disappearance of Lance Murphy.

It's where the missing man's car was found - his red, 2010 Mazda 6, which was spotted from the air by Eagle Helicopter.

Police have confirmed they found blood in the vehicle belonging to Mr Murphy. He's now been missing for nearly three weeks and was was last seen stopping at a BP station in Warkworth.

His family is worried and has grave concerns for his safety.

Police are now looking for 37-year-old Steven Gunbie, a man with a criminal history that includes firearms charges.

He's already teased Counties Manukau Police, putting up a message on Facebook in response to their appeal for sightings of him.

And it isn't the first time the Gunbie family has been in the spotlight.

Police confirmed Steven's sister Renee had her hand slashed by samurai sword killer Antonie Dixon in 2003.

Gunbie's mother didn't want to comment on the inquiry, but she told 3 News her family is cooperating fully with police and that she believes police want to speak to her son as a witness.

Police are simply saying Gunbie is a person of interest while they keep their focus broad.

Late this afternoon, police began searching a property near Wellsford, north Auckland. They say the property is connected to the missing person inquiry - but won't say how.

They expect to be there for a number of days.

3 News