Police have launched a fresh appeal for information about a Far North woman who vanished without trace more than three months ago.
Cable Bay woman Leeann Ailini Scott, 49, was last seen at Taipa on December 12.
The officer leading the investigation, Detective Sergeant Trevor Beatson of the Kaitaia CIB, said a thorough review into her disappearance had left police with more questions than answers. Extra staff had been brought in from Kerikeri to aid the search, dubbed Operation Royale, and were going door to door in Cable Bay and Taipa in the hope of learning something new.
Police were keeping an open mind on whether she had been the victim of an accident, foul play or other circumstances. The fact she had not contacted anyone and her bank account had not been touched raised serious concerns for her well-being. Police had been working closely with her family to identify avenues of inquiry.
"This is clearly a very distressing time for Leeann's partner and family, her siblings and parents. They have been very patient, but as time moves on they are becoming more and more anxious," Mr Beatson said.
The family was prepared for bad news but still wanted her home, he said.
Ms Scott's brother, Manuel Scott, of Auckland, said the family would not give up hope and were determined to do what they could to bring her home.
"We all hope for the best but are prepared for the worst," he said.
Meanwhile, her mother, Irene Basham of Cooper's Beach, has made another plea for information.
"If anyone knows where Leeann is, or has any information that can help the police find her, please call them, call the police, so we can get our girl home," she said.
Mr Beatson said police were keen to hear of any sightings of Ms Scott on or since the day of her disappearance. Any scrap of information could help piece together the puzzle of what had happened.
When last seen she was wearing a bright orange Northface Summit hooded rain jacket, black exercise-style pants and a pair of creamy/brown Nike walking shoes. She may have been walking along SH10 at Cable Bay immediately before she disappeared on the morning of December 12.
Call Kaitaia police on (09) 408 6500 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555-111.