Police mobilise residents in search for Tasman 80-year-old

Police are asking Golden Bay residents to thoroughly check their properties as the search continues for Natalie, 80, who has been <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/07/06/concerns-for-missing-80-year-old-in-tasman-amid-severe-weather/">missing from Pōhara for three days</a>. Natalie was last seen leaving her home on foot at around 8.30am on Monday. "We have great concerns for Natalie’s welfare, particularly given the <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/07/09/heavy-rain-warnings-gusts-of-up-to-120kmh-as-storm-moves-up-country/">wet and windy weather conditions</a>," Nelson search and rescue incident controller Senior Constable Jonathan Fris said. Police have carried out extensive land and water searches across Pōhara, Tākaka and surrounding areas, supported by Land Search and Rescue volunteers and Department of Conservation staff. The search has included Surf Rescue inflatable rescue boats, quadbikes, and drones operated by both police and the Pest Free Onetahua team. With Natalie still not found, police are now asking for help from residents in Rototai, including Tangmere Rd; Clifton, including Boyle St and Lansdowne Rd; Pōhara, Ligar Bay and Tata. "If you are willing and able, police ask that you, please, thoroughly check your property for any signs of Natalie," Fris said. "This includes but is not limited to, gardens, sheds, under buildings – if they are accessible, or anywhere a person may fit." Residents who complete a check and find nothing are asked to email their address to operationmotueka@gmail.com. Fris said Land Search and Rescue volunteers were continuing property checks in the area and may need to return to some properties. Police and Natalie's family thanked the Golden Bay community, landowners, local agencies and businesses for their ongoing support during the search. Anyone with information indicating Natalie has been on their property, or any sightings of her, should call 111 immediately and reference file number 260707/5962.