Police appeal for CCTV and dashcam footage as missing man case widens
Waikato police are appealing for CCTV and dashcam footage from Te Aroha locals as concerns grow for the whereabouts of missing man Louis. The 44-year-old has been missing since November 13, when he was last seen around 10am, believed to be heading toward the base of Mt Te Aroha. Investigators are urging residents and visitors in the Te Aroha area to review any security recordings or personal footage that may help piece together Louis’s movements in the days leading up to his disappearance.
What we know so far
Louis was last seen in the early morning hours near the town’s outskirts, with authorities focusing their inquiry on routes commonly used by hikers and locals alike heading toward the mountain. While no solid leads have emerged, detectives are treating this as a time-sensitive inquiry given the terrain and changing weather conditions in the region. Police are particularly interested in any footage from surveillance cameras along State Highways, local retail outlets, petrol stations, and residential properties in the Te Aroha area consumed by the foot traffic of hikers and tourists.
Why CCTV and dashcam footage matters
In missing person cases, CCTV and dashcam footage can provide critical context about a person’s routine, the direction they travel, and potential companions. Footage can help establish Louis’s last known movements and whether he interacted with others after he was last seen. Investigators emphasize that every small detail can steer the lead in a broad search, especially in an area with popular walking trails and variable weather conditions that can quickly alter the landscape.
How you can help
Residents near Mt Te Aroha and the surrounding communities are asked to check any personal devices or local businesses’ cameras for November 13 footage between 6am and 4pm. If you captured anything that might relate to Louis—whether a single frame, a portion of footage, or even a glimpse of someone matching his description—police want to speak with you. It’s important for the public to report footage even if it seems irrelevant at first glance; investigators can determine its relevance during review.
Tips for identifying missed cues
Louis is described as a man of average build with short dark hair and casual attire typical for outdoor activities. If you recognize his features or recall someone matching his description who was seen in or around Te Aroha on that day, please contact the local police station or the dedicated missing person line. Sharing information promptly increases the chances of a safe and early resolution for Louis and his family.
What the police will do next
Detectives are coordinating with search and rescue teams and local volunteers to conduct targeted checks of trails and likely pathways near the base of Mt Te Aroha. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities reiterate that public assistance is invaluable in resolving cases where a person has disappeared in a rural or semi-rural environment. Anyone with information is urged to come forward, and all tips will be handled confidentially.
For those who may have security footage but are unsure of its significance, police encourage you to contact the Te Aroha Police Station with details about when and where the footage was captured. Your information could be pivotal in determining Louis’s whereabouts and ensuring his safe return.
Update: Authorities appreciate the community’s cooperation and remind residents to stay vigilant and report any new sightings or changes in Louis’s status as the search continues.
