Missing autistic man found safe in Hanmer Springs after overnight search

Sunday, 21 June 2026

Patrick Eager, 26, has been missing since Saturday morning on the Conical Hill Track in Hanmer Springs.

A 26-year-old autistic man who went missing on the Conical Hill Track in Hanmer Springs has been located safe and well.

Patrick Eager disappeared just before 10am on Saturday morning after becoming separated from family members while walking towards the summit.

Police had raised serious concerns for Eager’s welfare, as he is non-verbal and unfamiliar with the area, making him unlikely to seek assistance.

An intensive search was launched Saturday and resumed Sunday morning, with 30 Land Search and Rescue volunteers from across Christchurch assisting Police Search and Rescue personnel to comb the track area.

“Police would also like to thank the Land Search and Rescue volunteer teams from across Christchurch who assisted us,” a police spokesperson said.