The 23rd of October will mark the 3rd anniversary of the day Jason Butler was last seen, after being taken into the Raukūmara Ranges on unsanctioned work experience.
About a fortnight earlier, Jason was admitted to Whakātane hospital under the mental health act, he discharged himself several days later in circumstances that were investigated by Te Whatu Ora.
In the days following his release, he was taken into the bush by a Ngā Whenua Rāhui pest control contractor - a programme which falls under DOC.
The work experience was unsanctioned, the pair were separated and Jason was never seen again. Jason's sister Huia Mackley spoke to Mihi just ahead of the anniversary.