Counties Manukau Police say they wasted no time taking to the sky following a concerning call from a member of the public whose father suffering from dementia had gone missing.

Just before 1am today, May 16, police were informed of man in his 80s with dementia who had gone missing in the Ōrere Point area of south-east Auckland.

Counties Manukau South Police area prevention manager, inspector Matt Hoyes, says the man hadn’t been seen for several hours and there were concerns for his well-being.

“The information we received indicated several risk factors, including his limited mobility and the fact he was unfamiliar with the surrounding area, which backs onto Ōrere Point Beach.

“Given the remote location, the police Eagle helicopter was promptly deployed to assist in the search.

“Eagle quickly got up and was very quickly able to locate the missing man in the nearby bush area.”

Hoyes says tactical flight officers aboard Eagle guided the informant to his father’s location just prior to ground staff arriving.

“Eagle’s prompt response to this incident was no doubt instrumental in ensuring this man was located swiftly and safely.

“This was a great example of multiple police resources working together for the greater good.

“It’s not always about apprehending offenders. A huge part of our role is looking out for one another.”