13 Aug 2023

Missing West Auckland 2-year-old found safe

8:52 pm on 13 August 2023
Two-year-old Willow, who was reported missing in Henderson and safely found after several hours.

Two-year-old Willow, who was reported missing in Henderson and safely found after several hours. Photo: Supplied

A missing West Auckland toddler has been found safe after hundreds of locals and police spent the evening searching for her.

The girl went missing from her home on Zodiac Street, Henderson this afternoon and was last seen in the garden playing with a sibling.

Family members were seen hugging and overjoyed at the safe outcome.

Police said in a statement that Willow's family thanked all involved in the search.

"There was a fantastic response from the community, who assisted with the search and provided support," Inspector Jason Holman said.

Willow's cousin Aroha Tecklenberg was grateful for the community's support and said the family was absorbing Willow's laughs, words and having her running around at home again.

"We know nearly everyone on this street here, and they're all lovely people. They've come over. They've brought us food. They know Willow and we've walked Willow around here so many times," she said.

"She's so nosey. She's in her terrible two moments. She loves playing just continuously. She absolutely loves and adores her brother. She loves the playground. She loves kids. She's just outgoing. Everything for a little two-year-old. She's pretty amazing."

Zodiac Street in Henderson.

Zodiac Street in Henderson. Photo: RNZ / Emma Stanford