Date: Wed, 01 Oct 2025 23:52:05 +0000
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Official Information request - Official Information Act Request – Search for 蝈J'
From: Chip Douglas <[email address]>
To: Ministerial Services <[email address]>

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Dear New Zealand Police,
Dear Sir/Madam,
Pursuant to the Official Information Act 1982, I request all information held by New Zealand Police regarding a search for the remains of Heidi Paakkonnen, who was murdered in April 1989 in the Coromandel area. This request is made in the public interest due to the unresolved nature of the case, potential misuse of Police resources, and the need for transparency regarding historical Police activity.
Specifically, I am seeking:
All reports, statements, internal notes, briefings, and correspondence relating to a search conducted on Māori Block Whangamatā 6B3B1, Whiritoa Beach, between approximately May 1989 and 1992.
Documentation concerning the involvement of Mr Rererangi Rangihika, who at the time was both the Trust Chairman of the land block and Head of the Police Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), in arranging or conducting this search.
Any records that describe the rationale for this search, including communications referencing the alleged involvement of a clairvoyant suggesting Ms Paakkonnen’s remains were buried on this land.
Any notes, assessments, or correspondence evaluating the legitimacy or credibility of this search, particularly in light of the apparent conflict of interest arising from Mr Rangihika arranging a Police-led search on land where he held both personal and official authority, despite there being no contemporaneous evidence suggesting Ms Paakkonnen had been in this area.
Any other records or information relevant to this search and the persons involved, including outcomes, findings, or decisions to terminate or continue the search.
The historical significance of this matter, and the public interest in transparency regarding Police involvement in searches that may have been influenced by conflicts of interest, warrants full disclosure. Providing this information will assist in public understanding of Police processes and ensure accountability in relation to past actions.
If any part of the requested information is withheld, I request that the specific grounds for withholding be clearly stated in accordance with the OIA.
Please confirm receipt of this request and provide an estimate of the timeframe for a response.

Yours faithfully,

Chip Douglas

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