Key Takeaways
- Mitchell Cole, 29, is being searched for by police in the Ruatiti bush area after his parents were found dead at their property
- A friend of Cole’s describes him as an "exceptional bushman" who is comfortable in the wilderness
- Police believe Cole has a black/blue bull mastiff dog with him and are asking the public to be on the lookout for him
- Two popular walking tracks at Whanganui National Park have reopened after police completed their search in the area
- The public is advised not to approach Cole if they see him, but rather to report any sightings to the police
Introduction to the Search for Mitchell Cole
The search for Mitchell Cole, 29, continues in the Ruatiti bush area after his parents, Brendon and Trina Cole, were found dead at their property on Saturday. Police have been searching the surrounding area since then, and a friend of Cole’s has come forward to describe him as an "exceptional bushman" who is more comfortable in the wilderness than at home. This information has led police to believe that Cole may be able to survive in the bush for an extended period of time. The friend, who wished to remain anonymous, said that Cole has the skills to survive in the bush and that there are multiple cabins in the area where local hunters store food and supplies.
The Search Efforts
Police have been searching the Ruatiti bush area since Saturday, and their efforts continue on Monday. They believe that Cole has a black/blue bull mastiff dog with him, and they are asking anyone heading into the bush to be on the lookout for him. The police are also warning the public not to approach Cole if they see him, but rather to report any sightings to the police. This is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of both the public and Cole himself. The search area is vast and dense, with many sections of the bush being frequented by local hunters who know the area well. The police are working to cover as much ground as possible, but they are also relying on the public to report any sightings or information that may lead to Cole’s location.
Reopening of Walking Tracks
Two popular walking tracks at Whanganui National Park, the Mangapurua and Kaiwhakauka Tracks, have reopened after police completed their search in the area. The tracks were closed temporarily while police searched for Cole, but they have now been deemed safe for walkers, bikers, and hunters to use. The tracks are part of the Tour Aotearoa route and the Te Araroa trail, and their reopening is a welcome relief for outdoor enthusiasts. Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono trail manager Lynley Twyman said that police had completed their operations in the area and were happy for the tracks to reopen. Twyman also stated that the areas where police were searching were well off the tracks’ path, and that the sections of the bush where Cole is believed to be are very dense and frequented by local hunters.
Safety Concerns and Precautions
While the search for Cole continues, the police are urging the public to be cautious when entering the bush. They are asking people to be on the lookout for Cole and to report any sightings, but not to approach him. This is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of both the public and Cole himself. Twyman said that the most likely hazards in the area are natural ones, such as trees falling down, and that trail managers are available to assist with any issues that may arise. The police are also reminding the public that the search area is vast and dense, and that they should be prepared for the challenges of navigating the bush. By taking these precautions, the public can help to ensure a safe and successful search for Cole.
Conclusion and Ongoing Search
The search for Mitchell Cole continues, and the police are working tirelessly to locate him. With the help of the public, they hope to bring Cole to safety and provide closure for his family and loved ones. The reopening of the walking tracks at Whanganui National Park is a positive development, but the search for Cole remains the top priority. As the search efforts continue, the police are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any information that may lead to Cole’s location. By working together, the police and the public can bring this search to a successful conclusion and ensure the safety of everyone involved. The police will continue to provide updates on the search and appreciate the public’s cooperation and assistance in this matter.
