Dozens of search and rescue personnel have continued to scour thick bush to try find an elderly possum hunter.
Alan Hill, 83, was reported missing after not returning from Ashley Gorge in North Canterbury on Wednesday night.
The experienced hunter entered the gorge about 7am and was expected to be out by dusk.
Thirty search and rescue members have been working with police and their dog teams to search the area.
A team of kayakers was brought in to help search the Ashley River on Friday.
