Police re-launch investigation into decades-old cold case

For nearly 35 years, the whereabouts of Andrew Maaka has been a mystery.

He disappeared on the 5th of November 1991 - last seen alive at the west Auckland chapter of the Head Hunters gang on View Road in Henderson. 

Now, Police have launched a fresh appeal for information.

Detective Inspector Callum McNeill said new information had come to light, but he couldn’t go into details because of sensitivity. 

However, he said there was hope someone could finally shed light on the situation. 

“35 years is a long time. Allegiances change, people leave gangs… start new lives.”

At the time, Andrew was a prospect for the gang, and described by friends as someone who was ‘streetwise, who was in a hurry, who wanted to make a few dollars - but not always lawfully’. 

DI McNeill said he was also described by some associates as ‘volatile’, and believed that could have been his downfall in a gang environment. 

Investigators do not believe there is a chance Andrew is alive, and he has been presumed dead since disappearing. 

“The information and intelligence gathered by investigators over this time has only heightened our suspicions, leading to the belief he has likely succumbed to foul play.”

At the centre of all of this was McNeill’s wish to get closure for Andrew Maaka’s family. 

“Speaking to his whānau, he was very affectionate towards his siblings. He had three children himself.”

“Time does not diminish the importance of this case or the need to bring closure for Mr Maaka’s loved ones.”

“They haven't had a chance to grieve. It's been 35 years of questions; they just want answers.”

You can provide information to Police online at 105.police.govt.nz or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number 920217/9553.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Images of Andrew Maaka provided by Police

Image of building taken from Street View