Police start winding down search for missing woman

Emma Campbell. Photo / Supplied

Police investigating the mysterious disappearance of Christchurch woman Emma Campbell warn she may never be found, as search efforts begin winding down.

But almost two and a half months since she went missing, Miss Campbell's family hope there will one day be a breakthrough in the case.

"Very frustratingly, that's the point we are at," said her brother, David Campbell.

Miss Campbell, 29, went missing after her 1994 Toyota Corona ran off the road into thick scrub in the Port Hills early on May 1. Extensive searches by police and the Army have failed to find any trace of her.

Police have said the car crash before her disappearance was more likely staged than an accident.

"We still have no idea where she is, or what she might have done, or what might have happened to her," said Detective Senior Sergeant John Rae. "... my feeling is that she is probably dead."

Mr Rae conceded Miss Campbell may never be found, dead or alive.

"I have seen cases where the body was found after 20 years. That is an option. It's not a very pleasant one, because you would certainly want it resolved as soon as practical."

Police will continue doing background inquiries with people who knew Miss Campbell. Her disappearance would remain in an open file.

Mr Campbell urged anyone with any information about his sister to come forward "no matter how insignificant anyone may think it is".