Social media post claims missing Wellington student Caitlyn Bird is alive

Caitlyn Bird was last seen in Glover Park, Wellington, on Monday 9 May, 2016.

A post to a university Facebook page claims a young woman who reportedly went missing in Wellington weeks ago is alive and well.

Wellington police said yesterday the family of 20-year-old Victoria University of Wellington student Caitlyn Bird had concerns for her safety as she had not been seen since May 9.

However, a post by a woman on the Vic Deals Facebook page last night says: "She's not actually missing ... I literally saw her yesterday. She must be ignoring her parents who are in a different country."

A police spokesman said this morning they had spoken to people who had reported seeing Miss Bird but they still needed to speak to her directly.

"While we appreciate members of the public may have had contact with Caitlyn, either in person or over social media, police still need to locate and speak with Caitlyn in person to ensure she is safe and well before we can close the missing person file."

The spokesman said it was too early to say if there had been any suspicious behaviour involved in her disappearance.

A Victoria University spokesman said the university had been in close contact with Miss Bird's family.

He would not disclose any details about Miss Bird but said the university would provide information to police if requested.

"Our thoughts are with Caitlyn's family and we hope she does make contact soon."

The Victoria University spokesman said they had been guided by the family and no messages have been sent to students from the university regarding this matter.

Police yesterday said Miss Bird was last seen in Glover Park wearing dark jeans, a black raincoat and a heavy, men's brown and white checked outdoor shirt.

Miss Bird is 178cm tall, with mid-length brown hair, hazel eyes, and a distinctive American accent.

According to her Facebook page, she began studying Marine Biology and Environmental Science at Victoria University in February.

Anyone who may have seen Caitlyn or have information on her whereabouts is asked to contact Wellington Police on 04 381 2000