Statement to be attributed to Detective Inspector Scott Beard: Auckland City Police
Since early this morning a scene examination has been underway in a section of bush on Scenic Drive in the Waitakere Ranges.
This area was identified late last night as a location of interest as a result of our investigative work.
I can now advise that shortly after 4pm today, we located a body which we believe to be Grace.
The formal identification process will now take place, however based on the evidence we have gathered over the past few days, we expect that this is Grace.
Obviously this brings the search for Grace to an end. It is an unbearable time for the Millane family and our hearts go out to them.
The investigation will continue though for some time yet.
The focus now is to piece together exactly what happened to a young girl, who came to this country on her OE.
I am releasing two photographs of a 2016 red Toyota Corolla hatchback. This car was hired from a central Auckland rental car company. We need to hear from anyone who saw this car last Monday morning, between 6am and 9.30am in the West Auckland area.
Anyone who saw the vehicle is asked to call us on 0800 676 255.
Finally, I would like to thank the investigation team for their long hours of hard work over the past few days.
We will be pleased to be giving Grace back to her family.
ENDS
Media please note: DI Beard will not be giving any further interviews or press conferences today or tomorrow (Monday).
Issued by Police Media Centre
