Police are planning a further search this week for missing man Jeremy Robertson south of Rotorua — the only person of interest in the death of his mother, Karen Gilbert-Palmer, in Pahiatua last October.
About 20 police search and rescue staff, alongside volunteers, will carry out what's described as a "final planned search" on Wednesday, in the area surrounding the carpark of the Blue and Green Lakes lookout, where the vehicle Robertson was using was located.
Detective Sergeant Richard How said there had been no activity on Robertson's bank accounts or mobile phone since the vehicle was left at the car park.
"Given these facts, police believe the most likely scenario is that he died shortly after arriving in the Green and Blue Lakes area."
How the case unfolded
Gilbert-Palmer was found dead at her Pahiatua home on October 15 by a friend who had been unable to contact her. A homicide investigation was launched after police was called to the property, with her red Mitsubishi ASX missing from the scene.
The vehicle was found unoccupied the following day at the Blue and Green Lakes lookout on Tarawera Rd, more than 350km from Pahiatua. Police believe Robertson arrived in the area in the car at around 2am, with the vehicle spotted in the carpark from about 8am.
Police publicly named Robertson days later, describing him as "in his 50s and of solid build," and urged the public not to approach him but to call 111 immediately with any sightings. He has not been located since, despite extensive search efforts in the months that followed.
Wednesday's search will involve the use of a drone, which will be used to search around the lake and nearby islands.
How said police expected it to be a single-day operation but that there would be a "significant presence" throughout the day.
"Police remain committed to locating Jeremy if at all possible, to provide the closure that Karen's loved ones deserve."
Police are asking anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward.
"We'd like to hear from anyone who has previously located any medication packets, or any red or blue clothing in the area surrounding the lakes, and nearby tracks," How said.
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