27 Mar 2024

Search underway for 79-year-old tramper missing in Waikato bush

7:12 pm on 27 March 2024
New Zealand forest. A fern sits in the center of frame.

File photo. Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

A search is underway for a 79-year-old tramper who went missing in the Waikato bush four days ago.

The woman had been tramping with two others in Pureora Forest before they were separated in the bush.

Police found the other people in the party and helped them out of the forest after a report was made.

The missing woman is described as having a slim build and is 167cm tall.

She was last seen wearing a silver rain coat and long dark pants, and carrying a day pack.

Police said there would be an increased police and Land Search and Rescue presence in the area.

Staff may access local properties as a part of the search, a spokesperson said.

Police asked for hunters in the area to be aware of the missing woman, as well as the ongoing presence of police and Land SAR staff.