The UK-based family of a British backpacker missing in New Zealand have spoken out about her disappearance.
Police are searching for 22-year-old Grace Millane after she failed to return to her central Auckland hostel.
Her family, who live in Essex, told the BBC they had last heard from Ms Millane on Thursday November 29 and she has since gone silent on social media.
She didn't respond to any well wishes for her birthday on Sunday, and her brother Michael Millane told the BBC she didn't call him on his birthday on Tuesday.
When the family tried to call both of her two cell phones, they both went straight to voicemail.
"It's really unusual for Gracie, as a family we've spoke every day to each other just via Whatsapp, just about the usual conversation," he said.
The family has been looking through her social media to try and find a clue as to what caused Ms Millane's disappearance, as well as reaching out on their own social media.
The BBC reports Mr Millane's father is now flying to New Zealand to help with the search. Meanwhile the family waits back home, in constant contact with the New Zealand police.
"It's completely a shock, you know every time we speak to Grace about her travels and what she's doing she's really positive and she's only ever enjoying herself," he said.
"We're just hoping for her to pick up the phone, get in touch with us. We're really worried about you Gracie."
Newshub.
