A letter from the family of Iraena Asher

We still hold hope for the safe return of Iraena. We believe there are several contributing factors to her disappearance.

Firstly, we ask ourselves what was happening in the home [where] Iraena was at 9pm on Sunday night to make her dial 111. Secondly, when Iraena calls on emergency number why were her cries for help not answered?

We have heard the tape and we have absolutely no doubt Iraena wanted the police. She did not once ask for a taxi. The police chose to ignore Iraena's distress and make their own decisions on what Iraena needed. They were obviously very mistaken.

Iraena's phone went out of range, but for all they know it could've been switched off. They still chose to ignore her. We are incredibly upset with the judgment calls they made which were a catalyst to her disappearance. There are many "what ifs" that we cannot answer and are not going to bring Iraena back. We know this.

When she was picked up by Julia and Henry Woodhouse they asked her if she wanted the police.

Iraena had already lost faith and told them she knew they wouldn't come.

We ask ourselves if the night's events could have evolved differently had her cries for help to the New Zealand police been answered.

My parents have lost all faith in the police over this debacle. For Iraena to have called the number that we all know and that she grew up with being told to call if she was ever in danger, and not have it answered, is only something we can now hope will never happen to another person in this situation ever again.

We request you respect our privacy and no more calls for information be regarded.

Thank you

Angelique Asher