Police pause physical search for missing Queenstown surgeon

Police have suspended active physical search operations for 47-year-old Erika Rodrigues Coelho, who has been missing since 18 September. The investigation remains an active missing person inquiry, and authorities are conducting a formal review to determine further tasks for the team.

Coelho's white Toyota RAV4 with a black roof was discovered at Skippers Saddle on 21 September. Investigators believe the vehicle was left at that location during the afternoon or evening of 18 September.

Authorities have been unable to identify a man seen on the Mt Dewar summit track near Coronet Peak around 12:30pm on the day Coelho disappeared. The man is described as being in his 30s, of Asian complexion, slim build, and of average to taller height with short dark hair and no facial hair.

Coelho, a Brazilian national and paediatric orthopaedic surgeon, moved to New Zealand in 2024 to improve her English. Her family in Brazil expressed they were "devastated" as they await news.

How it developed

• Wed 7 Oct, 5:07pmReport 4 identifies Coelho as a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon and provides details about her family's reaction and her move to New Zealand.

Where reports differ

• One report states the search was ended yesterday, while others clarify that while the physical search is paused, the inquiry remains active

Compiled from reports by Stuff, RNZ, 1News and NZ Herald.