I read recently through the media that over 8,000 people are reported missing annually in New Zealand but that virtually all are found safely or accounted for.

Then I read that historically, some 350 people have been missing for a year or more and the numbers become alarming.

Ask yourself, how can this many people simply vanish off the planet? New Zealand is a small country, and it would be difficult for an individual to simply leave the country using a false identity.

And, in any event, how would such person survive long term without support?

Take the recent case of Doctor David Holland who went missing from Papamoa Beach, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand in March 2022. (https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-60932392)

Despite an extensive search, nothing was found to help determine what happened to him.

He simply disappeared so he remains one of those small numbers of persons who fail to be accounted for annually.

I expect that the authorities have carefully reviewed the circumstances. David was apparently heading to the beach when he was seen on CCTV wearing a hat and carrying a tote bag. He was a strong swimmer and obviously very familiar with water. Yet nothing was found when hundreds of Police and volunteers searched to beach for him or his possessions.

Did he simply walk out into the water wearing all his clothes and carrying his property? I don’t think so. His personal items would have been left on the beach and would have been found by searchers.

So when the authorities say that the search was called off, what does this mean?

You can guarantee that there will have been many interviews carried out of family, friends and workmates. Also, David’s personal items including his phone and computer would have been checked for any clues as to his circumstances. There is something more to this story and it needs unravelling.

So how would a task force help in terms of this mystery?

Well, firstly, an independent review of the case would ensure that all the basics have been completed by the Police.

Secondly, a review would be made of the current Police practices when dealing with missing persons.

Something is not quite right here.

Again, I ask the question how can so many people simply vanish in New Zealand?

To simply ignore our shocking record is wrong and this needs to be addressed.

My gut feeling is that many of these missing people may have fallen victim to foul play.

In my view every case needs to be carefully analysed by experienced investigators and appropriate resources employed to find the answers.

Is saying that the search has simply been called off and that all lines of enquiry have been “exhausted” good enough?