That afternoon, Search and Rescue teams, including Land Search and Rescue, Police Search and Rescue, and dog units, were deployed to the area, Loughrin said.
“The search for Judy was suspended in April last year after a large-scale, weeks-long search,” he said.
“The choice to suspend a search is always a tough one. It involves the assessment of a number of factors, including consultation with survivability experts.”
In May, police and a cadaver dog deployed to the area again, however, they were unable to locate her.
“Judy’s family has been advised of the discovery, and they are being offered support at this incredibly emotional time,” Loughrin said.
Police said search and rescue staff were hunting for the pair in the Pureora Forest Park.
“As the matter is with the Coroner, we are unable to provide further comment.”
An autopsy has been completed along with the formal identification process.
Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa, the Outdoor Access Commission’s website, described Donovan as “the key driver and facilitator” of the Pukekohe Five Summits Trail project which connected Pukekohe’s five volcanic knolls and the natural and urban environments between them using existing roads and public trails.
Donovan was recognised as a 2022 Outdoor Access Champion for her work on the project.
The Commission’s website said she was one of five women in 2022 who “helped improved public access for New Zealanders”, creating more opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors.
About Pureora Forest
Accessible from multiple entry points along State Highways 30 and 32, Pureora Forest Park is a 78,000-hectare forest reserve between Lake Taupō and Te Kuiti.
According to the Department of Conservation’s website, in 1946 the forest became one of the last native forests to be opened up for logging.
Taupō‘s tourism website describes the Pureora as an ancient rainforest of giant native tōtara, rimu, mataī, miro and kahikatea trees. Attractions in the forest include the Timber Trail, Waiohara Lagoon and tracks to the summit of Mount Pureora.
