Police concerns grow for missing elderly woman

Photo / File

Whitianga Police working to locate a woman missing for three days say they are becoming more concerned for her safety as time goes on and are appealing to the public for sightings of her, or her vehicle.

Constable Don Edgecombe of the Whitianga Police said 70-year-old Shirley Anne Erin Loft was last seen about 8am on Thursday when she told her brother she was intending going for a practice drive to Coroglen.

Loft has not returned and her car has not been found. She was driving a 'wine red' Ford Taurus sedan, registration number UZ5577.

"Shirley suffers from depression and is also prone to anxiety and panic attacks. When leaving Shirley had left her wallet and medication at home and a check on her records shows that her bank account has not been used since Wednesday."

Mr Edgecombe said that apart from her pre-existing medical conditions Shirley is in good health although her hip has been troubling her and she has been walking with a limp.

"Shirley is about 157cm tall, of lean build and has short cropped hair. She was believed to be wearing jeans and a top with a small jacket of unknown colour when she was last seen and we ask anyone that may come into contact with her to try and calmly offer reassurance and to contact Police."

Police believe the fuel tank of Shirley's Ford Taurus was about half full when she left on Thursday giving her an estimated range of 200-300km.

Police are asking the public who have seen the vehicle over the past two days to make contact with them.

"The longer time goes on without contact with Shirley the more concerned her family, and Police become about her well-being."

Anyone who may have come into contact with Shirley Loft or who may have seen her car is asked to contact Whitianga Police on 07 866 4000.