Police are seeking the public's help locating a "much-loved" father-of-two missing from West Auckland since yesterday afternoon.
Sam Newton, 33, was last seen at his workplace in Henderson on Tuesday afternoon.
His vehicle was later found at the Mercer Bay Loop carpark near Piha.
He had previously visited the walking track on the morning of October 19.
Newton is approximately 185cm tall and wears glasses. He was last known to be wearing a white shirt, black pants, and black sneakers.
Anyone who may have seen Newton walking on the track or in the Piha area on October 19 or 20 was asked to contact police on 105 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
'Much-loved son, husband and father'
In a statement, Newton's loved ones described the Dunedin-born psychologist as a "much-loved son, husband and father of two".
"Warm, empathetic and incredibly generous, he plays a significant role in the lives of his family and friends. They are deeply concerned that he is missing."
Newton, who had previously worked as an engineer, had retrained as a psychologist and was in the final stages of completing his PhD.
"He has a passion for working with children and young adults and helping them to navigate adversity."
It continued: "Like many New Zealanders, Sam has experienced his own mental health challenges. However, he recently described himself as feeling optimistic about the year ahead."
His family said Newton was "very devoted to his young family, and his disappearance is highly out of character".
Police said the family "appreciate prayers and support at this difficult time".
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