UPDATE: This media release has been amended since the original release. 

Northern Territory Police are continuing their search for a missing 64-year-old man on the Larapinta Trail near Alice Springs.

He was last heard from via text message on Tuesday 21 May 2024, reporting that he had planned to be at Hugh Gorge by Wednesday 22 May 2024. His location continues to remain unknown.

A significant search operation has been underway on the Larapinta Trail since 9am on Wednesday 29 May.

Police have focussed the search to Section 6 of the Larapinta Trail, and to the south of this section towards Namatjira Drive. Due to improved weather, two helicopters have been tasked and deployed to the area. Other lower priority areas have not been ruled out at this stage.

Those involved in the current search includes Northern Territory Police Search and Rescue Section members, Alice Springs police officers, NT Emergency Service members, St John Ambulance personnel, volunteers from both the Larapinta Trail Trek Support Team and the Wilderness Trail hikers, and local Parks and Wildlife Rangers. The Australian Defence Force have also joined the search effort going forward.

An image of the missing man's tent has been provided, anyone who has seen this tent along or near the Larapinta Trail since 21 May 2024 is urged to make contact on 131 444, or attend your local police station.

If there are any changes to the search and rescue efforts, an update will be provided via media release.