The mother of a boy who went missing eight years ago believes he is still alive and may one day reach out to her.
A coronial hearing is underway to determine whether Mike Zhao-Beckenridge and his stepfather John Beckenridge are still alive.
Known for its rugged beauty, the Catlins has become a focal point in the disappearance of a stepfather and son.
A police drone re-enacted how it might have looked when John Beckenridge's car went over the cliff.
"The vehicle that has been located below did not make contact in that last four metres of grass that is absent of tyre marks," said Senior Constable Kenneth Patterson.
There are two opposing scenarios about how the car was driven over the cliff edge, whether the Beckenridges are still alive or if they are dead.
Police say evidence points to a murder-suicide, but Mike's family believe they are still alive - with the disappearance staged.
Police say John became desperate after losing custody, and his "white hatred" for Mike's mother fuelled him, leaving behind mystery and pain.
The family however believes there are several signs John was planning their escape.
"We believe they potentially managed to get passage on an ocean-going yacht or some other form of transportation and departed New Zealand," said private investigator Mark Templeman.
Swedish-born helicopter pilot John had a history of changing his name.
"We don't believe there is sufficient evidence to find conclusively that John and Mike Beckenridge are deceased and the family believe they are residing overseas with new identities," Templeman said.
Mike's mother believes John cares too much for his stepson to hurt him, and she believes that Mike will one day reach out to her.
