A New Zealand woman has been arrested after a girl was allegedly found in a suitcase. The suitcase was being stored under a bus as it was driving across the country. It was a shock and surprise when the driver discovered the suitcase was moving. This led to the discovery of the toddler, who was thankfully still alive. The 2-year-old was immediately taken to the hospital, while the woman was arrested. Now, the mom is possibly facing charges of neglect.
The 27-year-old woman, who has not been named, was arrested for ill-treatment/neglect of a child, New Zealand Police said in a press release.
Police were called on Sunday, August 3, 2025, when an unknown passenger requested to access the luggage compartment during a planned stop at Kaiwaka. “The driver became concerned when he noticed the bag moving,” the release said.
“When the driver opened the suitcase, they discovered the two-year-old girl.”
According to the police, the toddler was “very hot,” but otherwise was “physically unharmed.” She was taken to the hospital, where she was undergoing an “extensive medical assessment.” The woman was arrested on the scene.
“We would like to acknowledge and commend the bus driver, who noticed something wasn’t right and took immediate action, preventing what could have been a far worse outcome,” the release, credited to Acting Detective Inspector Simon Harrison, said.
A report from Radio New Zealand claimed the girl was found wearing only a diaper. She was apparently in the suitcase for about an hour.
InterCity, the bus company, acknowledged the incident. “As this is now an active police investigation, we are unable to comment further,” a spokesperson told Radio New Zealand.
Police issued a follow-up statement on August 4. They said the girl was “medically well,” and they were working with partner agencies to make sure she will be cared for.
“We appreciate there is high public interest with what has happened,” Acting Detective Inspector Harrison said. “However given the circumstances concerning the child, and the matter being before the Court, we are unable to provide further comment.”
“Our focus is on ensuring the child is well-supported and we are working with Oranga Tamariki in relation to this matter,” referring to the country’s Ministry for Children.
The woman was expected in court on August 4.
