Tongariro search: Beanie found in hunt for missing pair

  • 20/08/2017
Tongariro National Park.
Tongariro National Park. Photo credit: Supplied

More than 100 people are expected to resume searching for two men believed lost in Tongariro National Park on Sunday.

Most of them are volunteers, some travelling from as far away as Auckland and Wellington.

A beanie was found on Saturday, raising hopes they could be closing in the pair, who were last seen a week ago.

"Unfortunately, the two men have still not been found but searchers remain determined to find them," said Inspector Tony Jeurissen. "As a result of everyone's relentless focus, we continue to find items of interest."

A thorough search of Mangoatawai Stream and the area which joins Tongariro River was completed yesterday.

 "With the continued dedication from all the volunteers, we will bring these men home to their whānau," said Insp Jeurissen.

"I am so grateful for the enthusiasm from so many people all week and for the ongoing support from Ngāti Tūwharetoa."

The two men have been missing since allegedly fleeing from police and into bush on Saturday last weekend.

It's believed they are the same men who drove a stolen car officers failed to stop on State Highway 1 earlier that day.

Newshub.