Lofty was last seen early on 7 December in Murupara in Whakatane District, according to a police spokesperson.

"He was wearing an orange and black hoodie, grey track pants and roman sandals," says the police spokesperson.

"Lofty drives a Suzuki Grand Vitara (similar to the car pictured) registration LJJ931. He is known to have driven along the Napier-Taupo Road on the day he was last seen, and he is then believed to have driven towards Rotorua."

A Suzuki Grand Vitara, similar to the one driven by Lofty.

"Police and Lofty's family have concerns for his welfare and would like to see him return home.

"If you have any information that may help us with our enquiries please contact Police on 105 or online via https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 'Update My Report', quoting file number 221210/8845."