Mother of Missing Woman Breanna Muriwai Calls for Answers

The mother of missing Kāpiti Coast woman Breanna Muriwai has publicly expressed her belief that her daughter was murdered, more than a year after her disappearance. Speaking on the Making A Statement podcast, Jasmin Gray revealed her deepening despair and commitment to finding answers regarding her daughter’s case. Breanna was last seen near Te Horo Beach in the early hours of August 28, 2022, sparking a widespread search that has yet to yield results.

Gray emphasized her determination, stating, “My number one focus is finding my daughter. Closure is my number one priority. Everything after that, I just believe the universe will do its thing.” Her remarks reflect a mother’s anguish as she navigates a year filled with uncertainty and despair.

On August 26, 2022, family members dropped Breanna at Paraparaumu Railway Station. CCTV footage later captured her at a bottle store in Palmerston North with a male acquaintance. The last confirmed sighting of Muriwai was at around 4 a.m. on August 28, when she was seen with two men at Te Horo Beach. The following morning, a pink and purple suitcase was found on the beach, but its origins remain unclear as it was removed later that day.

In the days following her disappearance, Muriwai’s phone and handbag were discovered waterlogged in the same area. The New Zealand Police have consistently labeled her case as suspicious and suggest foul play may be involved. Despite extensive media coverage and public appeals for information, her body has not been located.

Public Support and Ongoing Investigations

The case has generated significant public interest, with Gray actively using social media to rally support and organize events aimed at raising awareness. In 2023, she led a march to Parliament, demanding justice for her daughter. More recently, in September 2024, Gray orchestrated a large-scale search convoy that mobilized community support from across the Manawatū-Wanganui region.

On the same day as the search convoy, a property on Rangwahia Rd, confirmed by police to be connected to Muriwai’s disappearance, was deliberately set on fire. A “crude incendiary device” was reported to have been recovered from the scene, but no charges have been filed. Gray alleged on the podcast that a member of the search convoy discovered a firearm buried six feet underground at the property before the fire occurred. She stated, “There was a handgun found [at the property].”

Gray further claimed that various items, including clothing and rubbish, were scattered throughout the site. The New Zealand Police were approached for a statement regarding these allegations. While they did not address Gray’s specific claims, a police spokesperson confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing, stating, “There are no further updates at this time.”

As the search continues, Jasmin Gray’s resolve remains strong. She continues to advocate for her daughter, seeking the closure that has eluded her family for over a year. The unresolved nature of this case continues to haunt not only Gray but also the community that has rallied around her in their quest for answers.