Matamata-Piako: Pauline Gray’s Family Expresses Gratitude for Search Efforts The family of missing person Pauline Gray has expressed their heartfelt thanks to the New Zealand Police and local iwi for their tireless efforts in searching for her remains. Gray’s body was discovered on Tuesday, August 2, 2023, after an extensive search operation. In a statement released through the police, Gray’s family said they were “deeply grateful” for the support and professionalism of the authorities involved. They commended the “painstaking” work of the officers and volunteers who had scoured vast areas of bushland and water in their search. “We want to thank the New Zealand Police for their unwavering determination and compassion during this difficult time,” the family said. “They have gone above and beyond in their efforts to bring Pauline home.” The family also acknowledged the invaluable assistance provided by iwi members from the Ngāti Hinerangi and Ngāti Raukawa ki Waikato tribes. They said the iwi had provided “immense support” throughout the search and had shared their knowledge of the local terrain. “The iwi have shown us great kindness and respect,” the family said. “Their cultural guidance and prayers have given us strength during this challenging period.” Gray, who was in her 80s, went missing on July 26, 2023, while walking her dog near her home in Matamata. A major search operation was launched immediately, involving police, search and rescue teams, and volunteers. The discovery of Gray’s body has brought a mix of emotions for her family. While they are relieved to have finally found her, they are also deeply saddened by her loss. “We will miss Pauline dearly,” the family said. “She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her memory will live on forever in our hearts.” The family urged the community to respect their privacy as they grieve and come to terms with their loss. They also expressed their hope that Gray’s legacy would be one of love, kindness, and community spirit.Pauline Grey’s Family Expresses Gratitude for Search EffortsPauline Grey’s Family Expresses Gratitude for Search Efforts Hamilton, New Zealand – The family of Pauline Grey, the 67-year-old woman who went missing over the weekend, has expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in the search efforts. On Monday evening, a deceased person was located in the Wairere Falls area. Police believe the deceased to be Grey, who had been reported missing after she entered the area in the Matamata-Piako district on Sunday evening. Michelle Riley, Grey’s daughter, thanked the search and rescue team, police, and the local iwi, Ngāti Hinerangi, for their unwavering work in locating her mother. “I would like to sincerely thank them for their incredible efforts,” Riley said. Senior Sergeant Aaron Fraser, Waikato East response manager, confirmed the discovery of the deceased person in a statement. “A deceased person was located in the Wairere Falls area last night. She is believed to be Pauline Grey, 67, reported missing in the area on Sunday,” Fraser said. Due to the dangerous conditions and the remote location, the recovery of Grey’s body was delayed until morning. Specialist teams returned to the area today to retrieve her body, and the Wairere Falls track remains closed until the operation is complete. Fraser expressed his gratitude to the public for providing information that assisted in the search. “I would also like to thank the family who have been extensively involved in the search process,” he said, adding that their thoughts are with them at this difficult time. The death is not being treated as suspicious and will be referred to the coroner. A rāhui, or customary prohibition, has been placed on the Wairere Falls Track for the next seven days. “Maryana Garcia is a multimedia reporter based in Hamilton and covering breaking news in Waikato. She previously wrote for the Rotorua Daily Post and Bay of Plenty Times.”