Search Intensifies for Missing Christchurch Woman with Dementia
Family Appeals for Public’s Help in Locating 79-Year-Old
A week after she went missing, police are renewing their plea for information regarding the whereabouts of Elisabeth Nicholls, 79, who was last seen in Riccarton, Christchurch. The search continues as concerns grow for her wellbeing, particularly given her dementia.
Last Known Movements
Nicholls was reported missing on Wednesday, June 4th, after being admitted to respite care at the Margaret Stoddart Retirement Village. CCTV footage places her at the Chateau on the Park in Riccarton shortly before 8pm that evening. Detectives are now trying to determine her route after leaving the Chateau.
“We don’t know where she travelled to after the Chateau, and have not been able to locate any items of interest that would lead us closer to her,” stated Detective Sergeant Lucy Aldridge today. Police have not ruled out the possibility of foul play, but currently do not suspect it.
Urgent Public Assistance Requested
Aldridge urged residents to thoroughly check their properties, including backyards, sheds, and any sheltered areas. She also requested that anyone with CCTV footage from the Riccarton area review recordings between 6:40 PM on Wednesday, June 4th, and 8:00 AM on Thursday, June 5th.
According to Alzheimer’s New Zealand, over 70,000 people are living with dementia in New Zealand, and the risk of wandering increases as the condition progresses. (Alzheimer’s New Zealand)
Family’s Heartbreak
“Her life has been about helping people through nursing, Plunket, and social work. She has been there for people when they needed her help, and her influence has touched all of our lives for the better.”
—Gary Nicholls, Husband of Elisabeth Nicholls
Gary Nicholls, Elisabeth’s husband of nearly 60 years, expressed the family’s “deeply concerned” state and the “painful uncertainty” they’ve endured this past week. The retirement village confirmed residents are permitted to leave freely and that they have offered support to the family.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police immediately at 111. Aldridge emphasized that Nicholls is physically strong and may have travelled a considerable distance.
