A concerted search effort is underway near Queenstown for Obi, an 11-year-old Samoyed who went missing on July 19 while out on a walk with his owner, Paige Kendra. The dog disappeared near Morven Ferry Road in the Lower Shotover area after wandering away from Kendra during their outing.

Kendra, who has cared for Obi since her early twenties, described the dog as a source of comfort during significant periods of her life. She said Obi’s independent nature was balanced by moments of affection that she now deeply misses.

Since his disappearance, intensive searches have been conducted daily along both sides of the river, through dense willow and tree cover, and along local trails. Thermal drones have been deployed repeatedly, and a private helicopter has flown at low altitude over the river and nearby terrain to assist in the search.

Local residents and animal welfare supporters have played a major role in the ongoing effort to find Obi. A Facebook page titled “Obi the Lost Samoyed” has gathered over 2,000 followers and reported sightings as distant as Nelson and Christchurch. Search parties frequently attract around 30 volunteers, many of whom are strangers to Kendra.

One key figure in the community response is Lisa May, a Queenstown animal rescue enthusiast who, despite having never met Kendra before, organized a private helicopter charter with Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters and offered a $10,000 reward to aid in locating Obi. May has also taken responsibility for managing inquiries related to the reward. Kendra initially found the generous offer difficult to believe but expressed gratitude and optimism about forming a lasting friendship with May.

Kendra has described the experience as deeply painful, posting on social media that the search has been “heart and soul crushing” and that her life has been on hold since Obi’s disappearance. Nevertheless, she remains resolute in her determination not to give up hope.

Individuals with information about Obi’s whereabouts are encouraged to contact the dedicated Facebook page for updates and to assist the ongoing search effort.