Police are warning against private searches for missing woman Breanna Muriwai, saying they may destroy or compromise crucial evidence

Muriwai was last seen at Te Horo Beach on the Kapiti Coast in August 2022, at the age of 22.

Her mother says "items of interest" were found during a private search she led, around an area around Mangaweka in Manawatu yesterday afternoon.

Police say while they understand people are genuinely wanting to help, the best thing the public could do is contact Police with information.