Police have identified human remains discovered in a Waikato forest as a tramper missing in the area since March last year.
A local hunter alerted police to the discovery in Pukeora Forest on January 27, with police now able to confirm the remains were those of 79-year-old Judy Donovan.
Donovan was laying bait in a group of three in the forest on March 23 when she became separated from the others. The remaining two trampers were found and helped out of the forest shortly after a report was filed with police.
Search and rescue teams were deployed to the area that afternoon.
Senior Constable Alastair Methven said at the time that the police Eagle helicopter searched the area using thermal imaging.
“The area is described as thick canopy with multiple waterways and windfalls.”
The search was suspended in April after a large-scale, weeks-long effort.
Police and a cadaver dog were deployed to the area in May, however, they were unable to locate her.
Waikato Western Area Commander Inspector Will Loughrin said the choice to suspend a search was always a tough one.
“It involves the assessment of a number of factors, including consultation with survivability experts.”
Donovan’s family have been advised of the discovery and were being offered support at this “incredibly emotional time”, he added.
A post-mortem examination has been completed along with the formal identification process.
