A major search and rescue operation has been launched for a British man who didn’t return from a solo mountain expedition in New Zealand.

Eli Sweeting, 25, sparked concern on Sunday when he failed to return from a trip up the mile-high Mitre Peak near Milford Sound.

Around 60 search and rescue volunteers as well as 10 police officers supported by helicopters have been scouring the area but rescue efforts were halted earlier today due to bad weather and difficult terrain but are set to resume tomorrow.

Mr Sweeting’s family are also flying out to help with the search.

Family friend Samantha Eastwell, 31, told MailOnline: ‘We are all just trying to stay positive, they keep seeing a light so they don’t know whether he is alive but when they keep having to call off the search because of the weather.

‘He’s a very outdoorsy guy and has been in New Zealand for a while. He was dressed for the conditions but [his sister] Serena told me Eli had only packed for one night.

‘The whole family is very, very worried for him and are flying out there now.’

The family has launched a Gofundme appeal to raise money for the search and rescue effort.

A major search and rescue operation has been launched for Brit Eli Sweeting after he failed to return from a solo mountain expedition in New Zealand

He has not been heard from since Sunday, when he went to hike the mile-high Mitre Peak near Milford Sound (pictured with his sister Serena)

Sister Serena Sweeting said: ‘Being in the mountains and adventure is what my brother lives for and he spends lots of time preparing for these adventures and training.

‘My brother is one of the kindest, most compassionate people in my life and he has always been there for me.

‘He inspires me to live and get out of my comfort zone as well as listens and genuinely wants to know you and your story.

‘Anybody who has met him will know what I mean. He has such a positive, vibrant and supportive energy.

‘We just want him home safe.’

Mr Sweeting, who is originally from Bristol moved to New Zealand after graduating from the University of Derby with a degree in outdoor leadership and management.

Until recently he had been working for a boat cruising company but has also worked as a kayak guide and in fields including climbing and watersports.

Darryl Wilson, CEO of Wilsons Abel Tasman, told Stuff NZ Eli is a ‘bright, engaging, fill the room type person’.

Mr Sweeting, who is originally from Bristol moved to New Zealand after graduating from the University of Derby with a degree in outdoor leadership and management

Around 60 search and rescue volunteers as well as 10 police officers supported by helicopters have been scouring the area

He added: ‘Our thoughts are with the family and those who know him, because it is a trying time for everyone, a concerning time.

‘Eli is a very resilient individual, so we hope and pray at this point.’

Police said a large number of people had been working through arduous terrain, supported by helicopter crews.

Detective Tracy Ward added: ‘There is also a huge amount of local support being provided by tourism operator Real NZ at Milford Sound.

‘Roughly 60 search and rescue volunteers, 10 police staff and numerous helicopter and tourism staff are working hard to find the missing man.

‘The search area is relatively contained but incredibly rugged and difficult to navigate once off the track.

‘At times, the search teams are only able to progress 250 metres in an hour.

‘While no items of interest have been positively linked to the missing man, a number of clues are being followed up on, and we remain hopeful that there will be a positive outcome.

‘The man we are looking for is experienced in the outdoors, and we believe he has suitable clothing and provisions, which can make all the difference.’