MISSING TRAMPERS

Hokitika Guardian, 26 April 1933, Page 5

MISSING TRAMPERS

NO TRACE FOUND

SEARCH PARTIES HANDICAPPED.

(Per Press Association — Copyright.)

PALMERSTON N., April 25

There is no sign of the missing Hampers on this side of the range. The searchers were handicapped today by a fall of one foot of snow at Tematawai but, alternating with rain. The party intends crossing to Mitre Flats in the morning, providing the condiions are) favourable. The search for the missing Hampers in the Tararuas is being redoubled. Six parties are operating on this side of the range, as follows: At Mount Holdsworth, in the Mangatarera Valley, on the south side of Waircawa River, at Mitre flats, at the headwaters of the Waingaiva River; and on the Blue Range. In addition another party proceeded this afternoon to investigate some smoke seen on the banks of the Ruanrahanoa River near Mount Bruce. A permanent base camp is being established at Mitre Flats,

The weather now shows signs of improvement, the rain having ceased, although it is still cold. The ranges

were visible to-da

for the first time

for over a week. This should enable more satisfactory work to be accomplished, as hitherto the searcli operations were greatly hampered on account of the weather conditions, which were as bad as they could be.

Grave fears are entertained as to the fate, of the missing party, on account of the wild weather, accompanied with snow and sleet.”