Police and Land Search and Rescue volunteers plan to conduct an intensive search of the Longwoods forestry area, in parts accessible by road, this Saturday as the search for missing Otautau man Dale Watene continues.

Detective Sergeant Chris Lucy said police continued to hold grave concerns for Mr Watene's safety.

The 40-year-old, described as being of thin build and 183cm tall, was last seen in Otautau on the evening of Thursday, April 16.

Police continue to liaise closely with Mr Watene’s family, and have searched a number of areas of interest in Otautau and Tuatapere, Mr Lucy said.

With the country moving to Alert Level 2 at midnight tonight, there were likely to be members of the public who looking to partake in hunting and tramping activities in the Longwood Forest but they were asked to steer clear of the area while the search was undertaken.

"We would prefer people to stay out of this area on Saturday, but would ask that those who do access the forest to please be extra vigilant for anything unusual, and to please notify Police straight away," Mr Lucy said.

Anyone who locates anything of interest, or has any information in relation to Mr Watene’s disappearance, is asked to contact Invercargill Police on (03) 211 0400. 

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.