Police investigating the disappearance of Michelle Hoffman-Tamm are tonight examining an area of interest between Rotorua and Murupara. A woman has also been arrested.
Michelle was last seen on 7 November when she left her Philip Street home on her bicycle.
Significant developments in the investigation this morning led Police to a rural location close to SH38 between Rotorua and Murupara at approximately 5pm this afternoon. That location has been secured and will be subject to forensic examination by ESR.
A house in Rotorua will also undergo forensic examination along with any other areas of significance that are identified. This combined work is expected to last a few days
Michelle's red bike has also been located today at a third location in a Rotorua suburb.
A 44-year-old woman has been charged with assault and will appear at Rotorua District Court tomorrow morning. Further charges are likely.
As the matter is now before the court Police are unable to comment in any further detail about today's developments.
However Police do want to hear from anyone who was in the area of Holland Street between 6pm on Wednesday 7, November and Sunday, 11 November and in Victoria Street between Sunday 11, November and Monday 12 November.
Police are particularly interested in the movements of a two-tone light-coloured Subaru Legacy stationwagon between the 7th and the 12th travelling around Rotorua or between Rotorua, Whakatane and Murupara.
Michelle's family are being kept informed.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 349 9400. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Media enquiries should be referred to District Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.