Police are still appealing for public assistance to locate Julie Butler, a 55-year-old sailor whose 18-metre schooner Blazing Shadz disappeared from Kaiaraara Bay on April 4 — 64 days ago.
Butler, who had lived aboard various iterations of Blazing Shadz for years, was well-known in maritime circles around Northland and Great Barrier Island. They had recently been moored at Aotea’s Kaiaraara Bay but were also a regular presence in Whangārei Harbour, Taurikura, and Urquharts Bay.
In the past, Butler had spoken of their ambition to attempt a solo, non-stop, round-the-world voyage — a record-breaking journey that would involve remaining at sea without making landfall.
A partner agency raised concerns for Butler’s welfare on April 4. However, severe weather initially delayed the search. By April 7, police confirmed that Blazing Shadz was no longer in its usual position. The vessel — described by witnesses as hard to miss — has not been seen since.
Despite ongoing rumours, police continue to treat the matter as a missing person case. Their search has included coordination with the Maritime Unit, Coastguard, and several harbourmaster offices — especially in Northland, where Butler spent more than a decade living aboard in Ōpua and Whangārei.
Anyone with information about Julie Butler or Blazing Shadz is urged to contact Police on 105, quoting reference number 250404/8311.
