Overview

• A bus driver in Kaiwaka heard movement in a sealed undercarriage compartment and discovered the two-year-old inside a suitcase during a scheduled stop.
• The toddler, who was described as very hot but unharmed, is undergoing an extensive medical assessment at a local hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
• Police arrested the 27-year-old suspect at the scene and charged her with ill-treatment and neglect of a child; she is scheduled to appear at North Shore District Court on Monday.
• Oranga Tamariki, New Zealand’s Ministry for Children, has been notified and is coordinating with authorities to provide care and monitor the girl’s welfare.
• Investigators are examining the relationship between the woman and the child and have indicated that further charges may be laid as the probe continues.