Friends of Auckland man Sam Newton-Jones have organised a celebration of life for the much-loved father-of-two.
Newton-Jones, a 33-year-old PhD student, was last seen at his workplace in Henderson on the afternoon of October 20.
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.
In a statement released by his loved ones the day after he went missing, Newton-Jones was described 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-Jones, 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."
'Believed to be deceased' – police
Police today said officers – with assistance from Land Search and Rescue and Surf Life Saving NZ – were unable to find Newton-Jones despite "extensive enquiries and search activity" in and around the Piha area.
"As a result of police enquiries, including discussions with Sam's family about his personal circumstances prior to going missing, it is believed that he is deceased," Detective Senior Sergeant Adam Lough said.
Lough said there was nothing to indicate foul play or suspicious circumstances.
"Pending further enquiries, Sam's disappearance will be referred to the coroner," he said.
"Sam's family has been updated, and police will continue to provide support as they navigate this incredibly difficult time."
'Celebration of life'
A Givealittle page set up by Nikita Parkin, a friend of Newton-Jones, said on Saturday the father-of-two had died.
"Sam Newton-Jones, a much-loved husband, father, son, brother, and friend to so many, has tragically and unexpectedly died," a post on the Givealittle page said.
"Sam was warm, empathetic, kind, and incredibly generous. Sam played a significant role in the lives of his family and friends, and will be missed deeply."
Parkin said the Dunedin-born man had "spent most of his career helping others and supporting our communities".
"Now we’re asking for help for the people he loves most."
Newton-Jones, who had previously worked as an engineer, had retrained as a psychologist and was in the final stages of completing his PhD.
Parkin said every dollar raised would go towards supporting Newton-Jones' wife and two children "who were so deeply loved by Sam".
"We want to wrap his family in aroha and ensure they have everything they need in this unbelievably difficult time," she said.
"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."
A celebration of Newton-Jones' life will be held on November 14 at St Patrick’s Chapel, at Dilworth Senior School.
"All who loved him are so welcome to attend."
The Givealittle page had so far raised $62,220.
SHARE ME