Waikato police appeal for CCTV and dashcam footage
Waikato police are appealing for CCTV and dashcam footage from residents in Te Aroha and surrounding areas as concerns grow for the whereabouts of a missing man named Louis. The 44-year-old has not been seen since the morning of November 13, when he was last spotted around 10am, believed to be heading toward a local area near Mt Te Aroha. Police emphasise that every piece of information could be crucial in piecing together his movements and ensuring his safety.
What we know so far
Louis was described by family and friends as a relatively tall man with a calm demeanor. At the time of his disappearance, he was reportedly wearing practical outdoor clothing suitable for the region’s changing weather. The search area has focused on and around Mt Te Aroha and adjacent trails, with authorities urging anyone who saw Louis or any suspicious activity to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and police are reviewing call logs, social media activity, and local business surveillance to establish a timeline in the hours following his last sighting.
Why CCTV and dashcam footage matters
Footage from home security cameras, street-facing CCTV, car dashboard cameras, and store surveillance can help detect Louis’s exact movements after his last sighting. In rural and semi-urban New Zealand areas, such footage can reveal whether he walked along familiar routes, entered businesses, or interacted with others. Police say footage from any distance is valuable, as it may fill gaps hidden by the natural elements or the passage of time.
How locals can assist
Residents who live or work near Mt Te Aroha or on the common commuting routes are encouraged to check any cameras that may have captured Louis on November 13. If you think you might have footage but are unsure how to share it, contact the Waikato Police through the official channels. Officers request a careful description of the clip’s date, time, and the direction of travel if possible, even if the footage seems routine. Any information, even if it seems insignificant, could be the missing piece in locating Louis.
Safety and community response
The community response in Te Aroha and surrounding towns has been supportive, with volunteers and local groups ready to assist in searches. Police encourage continued vigilance, particularly in areas with footpaths, trails, and unlit sections where a person might hide or become disoriented. Local residents are reminded to avoid sharing unverified information on public platforms to prevent spreading misinformation that could hinder the investigation.
What comes next
Authorities are coordinating with regional search and rescue teams and maintaining open lines of communication with Louis’s family. The investigation remains active, and police will release updates as new information becomes available. The public’s cooperation is essential to widening the evidence base and guiding search efforts across the terrain surrounding Mt Te Aroha.
How to submit information
Anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage relevant to the time frame and area should contact the Waikato Police or submit information via the official online tip line. When providing footage, please include the date, time, and location in as much detail as possible to expedite the inquiry.
