A body has been found in the search for missing tramper Connor Purvis, police say.
The 20-year-old intended to climb Mt Huxley on December 30. Concerns were raised when he did not return from the tramp.
Police said yesterday Purvis planned to descend via the Huxley River South Branch.
The body was found on the southern side of Mt Huxley at about 9am today.
Formal identification was yet to take place, however police believed the body to be the missing 20-year-old.
Otago coastal search and rescue coordinator Sergeant Matt Sheat said this was hard work in a remote, rugged, and high-risk environment.
"It’s been a long, tough week for all involved. This has been a true team effort and the good people of Omarama and Mackenzie have been providing incredible support to the search teams."
He thanked all those who had assisted in search efforts, including search teams and volunteers.
'Sorely missed'
In a post to social media this afternoon, his employer Bike House Dunedin remembered Purvis as a "well-liked and respected member of our team who will be sorely missed".
"We wish to pass on our sincere gratitude to all those professionals and volunteers who have spent time looking for Connor across the last few days.
"Our thoughts are with Connor’s family and friends at this deeply sad time."
The store was closed for the rest of the day while the team "support each other at this difficult time".
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