16-month-old left home alone in Kaikoura

At about 2:45am on Sunday the 1st of February, a distressed 16 month old child was located in the front yard of a business address on Beach Road Kaikoura by members of the public.
Police were called and he was taken to the Kaikoura medical centre for a check-up. He was found to be in good health.
He was placed into CYF's care until a family member could be located.
At approximately 4:12am Police were contacted by the distressed mother, who was visiting Kaikoura from the north island.
When spoken to about the incident, the mother admitted leaving the child unattended for approximately 4 hours while she went out socialising. During this time the child has woken and has left the house, possibly through the front door being left open.
The child will remain in care until the matter has been fully investigated.

Issued By: Inspector Michael Coulter