Searchers find body in ranges

The family of a missing tramper who was found dead in Tararua Forest Park have described him as having a huge passion for the outdoors.

John Arthur’s body was located by police in the Field Peak area of the Tararua Ranges late Saturday afternoon.

A family spokesman said Arthur had a huge passion for the outdoors, in particular the Tararuas, where he would spend much of his spare time.

‘‘John was also very passionate about photography, capturing images of spectacular outdoor scenery and places he would venture to. ‘‘John had served 42 years working for the New Zealand Fire Service within the Wellington and Paraparaumu Brigades.

‘‘He was extremely dedicated in protecting his communities and will be very sadly missed by his fellow fire-fighter colleagues.’’

Police Search and Rescue Coordinator Sergeant Andy Brooke said it had been a sad day for search parties.

‘‘Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends at this time.’’

Alarm bells were raised after the 67-year-old failed to return to his car at Otaki Forks by 3.30pm on Friday.

About 50 police and Search and Rescue volunteers had resumed the search for him on Saturday morning after it was called off Friday night due to light and weather.

In April American woman Carolyn Lloyd, 45, and daughter Rachel Lloyd, 22 had to be rescued by search and rescue teams in Tararua Forest Park.

The pair left for what was supposed to be a day walk on a Tuesday morning but became lost. Police were not alerted to their disappearance until the Friday.