Body found believed to be Rae Portman

Police investigating the murder of Rae Portman discovered a body at 550 Papakura Cleveden Road, Ardmore yesterday afternoon.

Detective Inspector Mark Gutry says “The body was found at the rear of the rural property and was covered over.

“We believe that the body is likely to be Rae Portman and a post-mortem is currently underway to determine identity.”

Last night the Rae Portman case featured on Police Ten 7. An appeal to the public was made and anyone with information was urged to call Police immediately. Overall 38 calls were received with critical information being provided to Police.

Detective Inspector Mark Gurty explained that “Rae left the Mt Albert Motel around 9pm on 20 June and headed south down the motorway in a black Mazda Astina to Markedo Place in Papakura.

"Her cellphone records show she was in the Papakura area just prior to 9.30pm on 20 June. Her phone then transmits to a cellphone tower in Te Rapa, Hamilton, about 5.30am on 21 June. We believe she has travelled to Hamilton in her black Mazda Astina.

“We also believe a yellow ute - with the licence plate LCKDUP - travelled behind Rae Portman's car to Hamilton and we’re seeking sightings of both cars from about June 20 and 21.”

Rae’s car was found in a Hamilton scrap yard on June 25.

A Hamilton man appeared in the Papakura District Court yesterday charged with kidnapping Rae Portman and will be remanded in custody until 18 October.

“We have spoken to Rebecca Norton, Rae’s mother, and are keeping her updated of the developments of the case.

“We’d also like to thank the public and the media for their support throughout this difficult investigation,” said Mr Gutry.

Anyone with information about Rae’s disappearance is urged to call Police immediately on 111 or 0800 RAE PORTMAN. If public wish to provide information anonymously they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.