"He is strong" says hopeful dad of missing hiker

The parents of the missing Dutch tourist Ken Boogers are heading to New Zealand on Tuesday to assist local police in their search operation. Boogers disappeared on Saturday after a walk along the coast. His father Peet retains hope for the good outcome, wrote Omroep Brabant.

“He is a strong boy. He can hold on an entire week, even though he may be hurt,” Peet Boogers told the broadcaster. The family is pleased with the efforts of the local police who initiated a search operation immediately after the disappearance was reported. “I’m sure they’re doing their best”, Ken’s father said. Five groups including a specialist tracking team resumed the search at first light today, according to a press-release by the New Zealand Police. The tracking team is searching at his last known location, whereas the other teams are continuing to search area caves Booger, and along the coastline. A helicopter is also conducting an aerial search, and two specialist search dogs are on their way to join the operation. “I am constantly in contact with the police there, and can call them whenever I want, even if it’s night there,” Boogers said. Ken Boogers was last seen going on a hike on Saturday at about 9 a.m., police said. People are reported to have seen him on his way back. Peet ruled out his son getting lost on the way, but quoted police as saying it's possible he explored a less travelled hiking route. “A crime also seems unlikely, though the police have not ruled it out”, he added. “I still have good hope of finding him alive."