03 September 2008
Waikato Police are currently activating their search and rescue teams as the search for an elderly Alzheimer's sufferer missing from Kihikihi since mid-morning is expanded.
Sergeant Warren Shaw of Te Awamutu Police said 71-year-old Te Mamae Dennison was reported missing from a relative's address on Rolleston St Kihikihi about 10am.
"Known as May the missing lady is from Alexandra in the South Island and was visiting relatives in Kihikihi.
"An initial search was carried out by Te Awamutu staff today which has come up blank so we are currently bringing in search and rescue teams to allow us to widen our search," he said.
Mr Shaw said May was last seen walking along Rolleston St about 10am carrying a dark coloured suitcase.
"We are concerned for her safety as we believe she will have no idea where she is, we are hoping someone may have seen her or a driver may have given her a lift, if that is the case we ask anyone who has come in contact with May to contact their nearest Police station."
May is described as a female Maori 71-years 0f age with a light complexion, thin build with a pageboy (ear length) style ginger/brown haircut, green eyes and a stooped posture.
When last seen May was wearing black trousers, a mauve/ burgundy top and black shoes.
"We're concerned May could be distressed as she will not know where she is or how to get back to her relatives," said Mr Shaw.
"If anyone encounters May she is a keen gardener and may be able to be calmed down by talking to her about gardening, she was not wearing any medic-alert type bracelets saying she suffers from Alzheimers."
End