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'Desperately worried': Police renew appeal over Chch woman missing for eight months

Author
NZ Herald,
Publish Date
Tue, 7 Apr 2026, 1:25pm

'Desperately worried': Police renew appeal over Chch woman missing for eight months

Author
NZ Herald,
Publish Date
Tue, 7 Apr 2026, 1:25pm

Nearly eight months after her disappearance, police have renewed their appeal for information on missing Christchurch woman Rowena Walker.

The 39-year-old has not been seen since August 14, when she was captured on CCTV on Bassett St, Christchurch.

Despite inquiries across multiple regions, investigators say they are no closer to finding her.

Police have carried out inquiries across Waikato, Tasman and Canterbury but have not yet located Rowena Walker. Photo / Police
Police have carried out inquiries across Waikato, Tasman and Canterbury but have not yet located Rowena Walker. Photo / Police

Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan said police remained committed to their efforts to locate Walker.

“Rowena’s last confirmed sighting was on 14 August, when she was captured on CCTV in Christchurch on Bassett Street with an associate,” she said.

“We know she travelled often, and in our efforts, we have searched in several districts including Waikato, Tasman, and Canterbury. Unfortunately, we have not been able to locate Rowena.

“Police are urging anyone with information that may assist our enquiries to please contact us.

“Rowena has not been in contact with her children since she went missing, and as her 40th birthday approaches, her family are now desperately worried for her safety.

“If you know anything, no matter how small you think it may be, it may be the piece in the puzzle we need to locate Rowena.”

Rowena Walker, 39, has been missing since August 14, when she was last seen on CCTV in Christchurch’s Bassett St. Photo / Police
Rowena Walker, 39, has been missing since August 14, when she was last seen on CCTV in Christchurch’s Bassett St. Photo / Police

On behalf of the police, she thanked all members of the public who had provided information so far or have assisted in the search for Rowena.

Anyone who has information can contact police online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105, referencing file number 251022/9026.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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