21 Nov 2023

Missing woman last known to be in Cromwell found

1:40 pm on 21 November 2023
Auckland, New Zealand - December 24, 2020: Close up of a New Zealand police officer's uniform and badge

Photo: 123RF

Police searching for a woman who went missing on Monday while driving from Dunedin to Queenstown have found her alive in her crashed car.

Stuff reported Colleen, also known as Rhonda, was making her way to pick up her grandson from Queenstown Airport but never arrived.

On Tuesday morning, police said they were worried about her safety. She was last known to be in Cromwell, an area she was unfamiliar with.

Shortly before midday, police issued another statement saying she had been found safe and well.

It was then revealed that Colleen was located in her car which had crashed on Gibbston Highway - along the route to Queenstown Airport.

"She is in a moderate condition and is being transported to Lakes Hospital."

Colleen was being transported via a helicopter.

"Police would like to thank those who provided information to assist in locating her."

The road where the crash occurred was closed but it was expected it would reopen early this afternoon.