
Woman and her yacht missing from Aotea/Great Barrier Island
A woman and her boat have been missing from Aotea/Great Barrier Island for almost three weeks, police say.
Julie Butler, 55, usually lives aboard her yacht Blazing Shadz moored in Kaiarara Bay.
Police said they were notified by a partner agency about concerns for Butler on April 4.
Adverse weather hampered inquiries until April 7, when it was confirmed Blazing Shadz was not moored in its usual location.
"Inquiries have been ongoing since this time, including with the Police Maritime Unit and Coastguard," a spokesperson said.
Extensive inquiries with Butler's friends, whānau and other partner agencies have been undertaken. Harbourmasters had been contacted at locations where Butler was known to visit, including Whangārei.
"To date, we have been unable to locate Julie or her vessel Blazing Shadz."
Anyone with relevant information should contact police on 105.

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Woman and her yacht missing from Aotea/Great Barrier Island
A woman and her boat have been missing from Aotea/Great Barrier Island for almost three weeks, police say. Julie Butler, 55, usually lives aboard her yacht Blazing Shadz moored in Kaiarara Bay. Police said they were notified by a partner agency about concerns for Butler on April 4. Adverse weather hampered inquiries until April 7, when it was confirmed Blazing Shadz was not moored in its usual location. "Inquiries have been ongoing since this time, including with the Police Maritime Unit and Coastguard," a spokesperson said. Extensive inquiries with Butler's friends, whānau and other partner agencies have been undertaken. Harbourmasters had been contacted at locations where Butler was known to visit, including Whangārei. "To date, we have been unable to locate Julie or her vessel Blazing Shadz." Anyone with relevant information should contact police on 105.