Blood found in missing woman's house

Forensic experts have found blood in the Johnsonville, Wellington, home of missing Cambodian woman Wathanak Tea and police now have "grave concerns" for her safety.

Detectives and Institute of Environmental Science and Research scientists spent yesterday looking for clues in the 37-year-old's flat .

Ms Tea was dropped at home by a male friend on Boxing Day evening, and was visited by another man the following morning.

Police do not think Ms Tea went back to Cambodia and are stepping up the missing person inquiry to have a staffing level similar to that of a homicide investigation.

Acting Wellington CIB head Detective Sergeant Max Taylor today confirmed blood had been found in Ms Tea's hallway and bedroom. He did not say how much blood was discovered .

The scene examination also uncovered other concerning details.

"It has added to our concerns. There are items of a personal nature that one would assume she would have taken on a holiday which remain in the house," Mr Taylor said.

"It's looking far less likely that she's gone overseas. We've all but exhausted our inquiries in that area, but there remains a small possibility she has gone back to Cambodia."

Up until late last year, Ms Tea was planning to travel to Cambodia to visit relatives. The bakery assistant, who was once married to a Cambodian man who lives in the Wellington region, did not travel on her New Zealand or Cambodian passports but officers are probing the possibility she might have had another one under a different name.

Ms Tea's bank account has not been used since December 26. A transaction was made in the Upper Hutt area, where Ms Tea was shopping.

Police plan to talk to Ms Tea's small circle of friends, associates and workmates .

- NZPA