The search for 19-year-old Maia Johnston continues in Upper Hutt, as police and volunteers scour the area after she disappeared during heavy rain on Saturday evening.
UPDATED: Missing teenager Maia Johnston found in Upper Hutt
Maia was last seen leaving a family home in Totara Park around 8:30 p.m., wearing a black cardigan or light top, dark shorts, and black-and-white Converse shoes. Authorities have asked residents in Totara Park, Harcourt Park, and Brown Owl to check their properties, outbuildings, and CCTV footage for any signs of the missing teen.
Despite following numerous leads, police have yet to locate Maia and remain determined to ensure her safety.
Maia’s mother, Amy Walsh, made an emotional plea from the search base at Totara Park School, urging her daughter to come home.
“If you are alive and well, I don’t care where you are, what decision you made, or who you are with. I just want to hear you’re safe,” she said.
Walsh recounted the moments leading up to her daughter’s disappearance, noting Maia had stepped out for some fresh air, leaving her phone behind.
Family and friends have been tirelessly searching ever since, joined by hundreds of volunteers who have turned out to assist. Walsh expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support and described Maia as a determined young woman working to overcome mental health struggles.
The search effort has expanded beyond Upper Hutt, with Maia’s father flying in to join the search and family members checking her home in Hamilton.
Walsh remains hopeful but worried her daughter may have hurt herself or intentionally left her phone behind.
The family and police urge anyone with information to contact the police using reference number 241222/0237.
