Police will carry out what they say is the final planned search for missing man Jeremy Robertson in the Rotorua area this week.
Detective Sergeant Richard How said about 20 Police Search and Rescue staff, alongside volunteers, will search areas surrounding the Blue and Green Lakes lookout carpark on Wednesday 22 July. The vehicle Jeremy Robertson was using was previously found at the site.
The search will include the use of a drone to examine areas around the lakes and nearby islands.
Jeremy Robertson is the sole person of interest in the investigation into the death of his mother, Karen Gilbert-Palmer, who died in Pahiatua on 15 October 2025.
Police said there has been no activity on Robertson’s bank accounts or mobile phone since the vehicle arrived at the lookout carpark.
“Given these facts, Police believe the most likely scenario is that he died shortly after arriving in the Green and Blue Lakes area,” Detective Sergeant How said.
Police said they remain committed to locating Robertson if possible to provide closure for Karen Gilbert-Palmer’s loved ones.
The search is expected to be completed in a single day, although there will be a significant Police presence in the area throughout Wednesday.
Police are asking anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward. They are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who has previously found medication packets, or red or blue clothing, in the area surrounding the lakes or on nearby walking tracks.
Anyone with information can contact Police via 105 by phone or online at 105.police.govt.nz, quoting file number 251015/6286.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.