Police are seeking the public's assistance in locating Shelly Crooks, who has been missing since December 22, 2016.

Shelly, who was was last seen in Punakaiki, on the South Island West Coast, told a friend she was going to hitch hike to Opotiki in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Shelly's family hasn't heard from her since which is unusual, especially over the holiday period. Shelly is 36 years-old and is described as medium build and is about 180cm tall. She is an experienced tramper and was well equipped to go off the grid for a number of days and had suitable equipment with her, say Police.

Any information or sightings can be given to Sergeant Michel Bloom, Greymouth Police 03 768 1600 or via email Michel.bloom@police.govt.nz (link sends e-mail).