KEY POINTS:
Police have fears that a missing woman could be dead and want to solve her disappearance for the sake of her family.
Annabell Tumanako, 35, from Hawkes Bay was last seen in the Napier suburb of Maraenui three months ago on Saturday, June 23.
Police said her disappearance was totally out of character and there were now major concerns for her safety. She has not used her bank accounts or had any contact with family or friends.
While the case is currently being treated as a missing person, police are not ruling out foul play.
Detective Sergeant Sean Hansen, of Napier CIB, said Ms Tumanako's car may provide vital clues to her whereabouts.
The silver Toyota Corona, registration PI7806, was found abandoned near the Westshore Hotel on Meeanee Quay on the outskirts of Napier the day after she was last seen.
The car was dumped on the forecourt of a disused petrol station next to the pub.
Police believe someone would have seen the car being driven to the old petrol station at some stage during the night of June 23, particularly motorists or out-of-towners who may have been staying in the area.
``This was a very busy night that included the All Blacks Tri-Nations game against the Springboks and the first race in the America's Cup yachting series,' Mr Hansen said.
"We're appealing to anyone who was in the Westshore area that night to come forward with any information.'
Police have already undertaken an extensive ground search, using cadaver dogs, of the Ahuriri Estuary, across the road from the Westshore Hotel.
But much of the investigation has focused on the car, including trying to establish if Ms Tumanako drove the car there herself or whether it was stolen and dumped there.
``There are several unanswered questions that only the public can help us with, ' Mr Hansen said.
Ms Tumanako was living under a mental health community housing programme in Maraenui with two other people, including her boyfriend. She suffers from a schizophrenic illness.
Police say they have interviewed all the people who live in the house, but so far no clues have emerged as to where she might be.
`` We don't have any clear indication of what may have happened to Ms Tumanako, however it is quite likely that she is not alive.
``Her disappearance is causing significant anguish for her family and we want to find her to bring some closure to this matter for them,' Mr Hansen said.
Anyone with information about Ms Tumanako's car or her disappearance should ring the Napier police crimeline -- 0800 567789 or Mr Hansen on 06 8310700. Information can be left in confidence.
- NZPA
