A “much-loved” Auckland father who went missing in West Auckland last month is believed to be dead.
Sam Newton-Jones, 33, was last seen at his workplace in Henderson on October 20. His vehicle was later found at the carpark of the popular walking track, Mercer Bay Loop, in the Waitākere Ranges near Piha.
He has not been in contact with family and no sightings have been reported.
After inquiries, including discussions with Newton-Jones’ family about his personal circumstances before going missing, it is believed he is dead, police said today.
Police, with assistance from Land Search and Rescue and Surf Life Saving New Zealand, have conducted substantial searches in and around the Piha area.
Detective Senior Sergeant Adam Lough said nothing indicated foul play or suspicious circumstances.
“Sam’s disappearance will be referred to the Coroner.
“Sam’s family has been updated, and Police will continue to provide support as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.”
An update on a Givealittle page set up to support Newton-Jones’ family said he had “tragically and unexpectedly” died.
“This isn’t an update anyone ever imagined we’d have to send”, the message dated November 7 said.
Newton-Jones was described as a “much-loved husband, father, son, brother, and friend to so many”.
Funds raised from the page, totalling more than $62,000, will go to his wife Annie Newton-Jones and their children, Lou and Juno.
In an update on October 21, police said his vehicle being found in the carpark raised concerns for his safety.
Included in the statement was information from his family, who said Newton-Jones, a doctoral psychology student, had experienced past mental health challenges but recently spoke optimistically about the year ahead.
His disappearance was “highly out of character”, as he was a devoted family man.
Newton-Jones, born in Dunedin, trained as an engineer before changing careers in his mid-20s to pursue psychology.
He was in the final stages of completing his PhD and was passionate about helping children and young adults overcome adversity.
“Warm, empathetic and incredibly generous, he plays a significant role in the lives of his family and friends. They are deeply concerned that he is missing.”
The Mercer Bay Loop Track is about 50km west of Auckland city centre.
The 2.2km loop track takes about an hour to complete, with steep sections and exposed cliff edges.
The area has been linked to several mysterious disappearances over the years, including two women who vanished after visiting the same walking track.