Missing 81-year-old Christchurch woman found 'extremely cold' after five days

9 Jun 2026

Valerie Hargrave was missing for five days.

Photo: Supplied

Canterbury woman Valerie Hargrave has been found after five days.

The 81-year-old was "extremely cold" but talking to police and will be sent for a medical exam, Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie said.

Hargrave was reported missing last week in Woolston. She was found on Tuesday evening in Ferrymead.

It follows days of extensive searching by police teams, assisted by members of the public, Baillie said.

"Her family have been notified of this great result."

When she went missing on Thurday night, Hargrave was in the St John Street area wearing a pink cardigan or jersey. She walked with a shuffle and police said there were concerns for her welfare.

Police Search and Rescue were assisted by volunteers from LandSAR in their search for the pensioner.

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