Police are carrying out a fresh search of Christchurch’s residential red zone as part of the investigation into missing woman Rowena Walker.

Multiple police officers are at the scene just off New Brighton Road, where they can be seen digging in an area surrounded by trees and dense vegetation.

Those at the scene appear to include detectives, uniformed officers and specialist police staff.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan confirmed to Chris Lynch Media that today’s search was connected to Walker’s disappearance.

“Today Police are searching an area of the Christchurch red zone in relation to missing person Rowena Walker.

“Members of the community may notice an increased Police presence while the search is undertaken.”

Carolan said it was a routine enquiry and no further update was available on the case at this time.

Walker was reported missing by her mother on 22 October last year. Her last confirmed sighting was on 14 August 2025.

Police have previously carried out extensive searches of the Christchurch red zone, including land, water and aerial searches.

Police have said they believe Walker was the victim of foul play and is no longer alive.