Search efforts are ramping up as police maintain a positive outlook in the ongoing search for missing British tramper Eli Sweeting, who disappeared during a solo hike in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park. Sweeting, 24, was last seen on Sunday, May 4, 2025, after embarking on a day trip to climb Mitre Peak, a popular hiking destination in the Milford Sound region.
The search for Sweeting was temporarily halted on Thursday, May 8, due to severe weather conditions, which included heavy rain and strong winds. However, with fine weather forecasted for Friday, May 9, authorities are set to resume their efforts with renewed vigor. Approximately 40 staff and volunteers are currently involved in the search operation, which has seen significant contributions from various specialist teams.
According to a police spokesperson, the search will include a large-scale ground and aerial operation. Teams involved in the search include Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR) units from across the southern region, a Dunedin-based search dog team, the Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue team, and the Otago Surf Life Saving Club. Additionally, the Southland Amateur Radio Club is assisting in the coordination of efforts.
Air support is being provided by Southern Lakes Helicopters, Heliworks Queenstown, and Real NZ, whose ongoing contributions have been vital to the operation. Police have expressed gratitude for the commitment and dedication shown by all those assisting in the search.
Sweeting's family, who are currently in England, are understandably anxious about his whereabouts. His sister, Serena Sweeting, has been vocal on social media, expressing her gratitude to the search crews. "Thank you so, so much to everyone out there looking for Eli. I feel so hopeless being so far away but it’s reassuring the effort going in to find him. If anyone spoke to him please reach out to the police with information," she wrote.
The search operation has seen a notable increase in personnel since it began. On Tuesday, May 6, about 60 volunteers, 10 police staff, and helicopter and tourism staff were involved in the initial search efforts. Unfortunately, due to the inclement weather, search helicopters were unable to take to the air on Wednesday, May 7, but ground searches continued.
As the search resumes, the police have reiterated their positive outlook and commitment to finding Sweeting. They have encouraged anyone who may have information that could assist in locating him to report it online or call 105, referencing event number P062448221.
The Milford Sound area, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, is also known for its challenging weather conditions, which can change rapidly. This has posed significant challenges for search teams, but with the improvement in weather, hopes remain high.
In the days leading up to the search, Sweeting's family had been in constant communication with authorities, seeking updates and expressing their concerns. The community has rallied around the search effort, with many offering their support and assistance.
As the search continues, the focus remains on finding Eli Sweeting and bringing him home safely. The combination of professional search teams and community volunteers highlights the spirit of cooperation and determination that characterizes such efforts in New Zealand.
With the search operation set to continue throughout the weekend, authorities are hopeful that the improved weather conditions will yield positive results. The commitment of all involved, from the police to volunteers and community members, underscores the importance of teamwork in such critical situations.
As this story develops, updates will be provided by local authorities and news outlets. The Sweeting family remains in the thoughts of many as they await news of their loved one.
