Funeral takes place of Rose of Tralee contestant found dead after going missing in New Zealand

Monica Reid (26) was last seen in Matipo Road, Te Atatū in West Auckland one week ago.

A notice on nzherald states: “Reid, Monica Marguerite (Mon). Aged 26, died on Friday 14th June, 2024. Mon was a much loved daughter of Gabrielle and Nicholas Reid, and beloved fiancée of Shivneel Singh.

“Mon was a treasure and precious member of a large family, the youngest of eight children – an aunty, sister, daughter, and friend.

“Mon was an actress, playwright, producer, and a beautiful light in our lives. Her Funeral Service will be held at The Trusts Arena, Central Park Drive, Henderson, Auckland, 11.30am, Friday 21st June, 2024.”

In a statement last Sunday, North Shore, Rodney and West Auckland Police confirmed her death.

“Her death is not being treated as suspicious and will be referred to the coroner. Police extend our sympathies to the woman’s family and loved ones,” a spokesperson said.

Ms Reid was this year’s Auckland Rose and took part in the New Zealand competition last month to choose a representative to travel to Ireland for the International Rose of Tralee pageant in August.

However, she was not the overall winner, as 21-year-old Keely O’Grady was crowned the New Zealand Rose last month.

It’s understood that Ms Reid worked as a transport network organiser and was in the process of completing a master’s degree in urban planning.

The Auckland Irish Club paid tribute to Ms Reid in a statement.

“Sending lots of love and condolences to the family of Monica Reid. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May she rest in peace,” they wrote.

Others have shared tributes to Ms Reid online, with one person writing: “Fly high you beautiful soul! We love you so much and you were loved by so many. Keep being an amazing human up above. RIP.”

Another said: “This is devastating. Monica Reid was one of the kindest and most lovely people I’ve had the benefit of working with and calling my friend. I’m sending so much love to her family and friends, she will truly be very, very missed.”