Police seek public assistance to find missing Christchurch teenager
Monday 5 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Police are searching for a teenager named Mataatua, who has been missing since 30 September. He was last seen on Woodham Road in Linwood, heading towards Avonside. Authorities are concerned for his wellbeing and have been unable to locate him despite several inquiries.
Key facts
5 facts
- Missing person: Mataatua
- Last seen date: 30 September
- Last seen location: Woodham Rd, Linwood, travelling towards Rowcliffe Cres, Avonside
- Police reference number: 260922/3657
- Crime Stoppers number: 0800 555 111
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Police are seeking public assistance to find a teenager named Mataatua who has been missing for nearly a week. Officers are concerned for his wellbeing and want him to return home.
Mataatua was last seen on 30 September on Woodham Rd in Linwood. At that time, he was travelling towards Rowcliffe Crescent in Avonside.
“Police have followed a number of inquiries, however have not yet located him,” a spokesperson said.
People with information can contact police online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105 using reference 260922/3657. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Where reports differ
- Report 1 states Mataatua was last seen on Wednesday, while report 2 specifies the date as 30 September.
Compiled from reports by The Press and NZ Herald.
How they headlined it
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