Christchurch police say a three-day search for a missing man in Arthur's Pass National Park has been called off.
Peter John Crowther was last seen on the afternoon of 14 June at his workplace in the Christchurch suburb of Addington.
Detective Inspector Dave Long said on Wednesday that, after discussions with Mr Crowther's family about his personal circumstances, it is thought most likely that he has died.
Mr Crowther's car was found near the Mount White bridge in Arthur's Pass on Sunday, but Mr Long said police don't hold out any realistic prospect of finding him alive in the area.
A helicopter was brought in on Tuesday to conduct a sweep up nearby rivers and check huts and shelters in the vicinity, and about 20 police and volunteers scoured thick bush in the national park on Wednesday before the search was called off.
Mr Long said there is no indication of foul play and Mr Crowther's disappearance is likely to be referred to the Coroner.
