A Chinese man who tried to flee New Zealand has been found guilty of murdering Christchurch real estate agent Yanfei Bao.

Tingjun Cao, 53, was found guilty in the High Court in Christchurch today.

The jury unanimously concluding Cao murdered Bao, 44, on July 19 last year.

Bao, a real estate agent and mother, went missing on July 19, 2023, while showing a property in Wigram, Christchurch.

She was last seen alive that morning, and her disappearance prompted a significant police investigation.

Cao, who had been living in New Zealand for only a short time, became a person of interest early in the investigation.

Police arrested him at Christchurch International Airport just hours before he was due to board a flight to China. Despite his arrest, Bao’s body remained missing for over a year.

Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves said police acknowledge the verdict, which follows months of dedicated efforts to bring justice for Bao’s family.

“Since July 2023, police have been committed to seeking a resolution for Yanfei Bao’s family and loved ones,” Reeves said. “While an arrest was made soon after Yanfei went missing, her body was not located until over a year later.”

Reeves described the case as extraordinary, with a profound impact on all staff involved.

She commended the strength of Bao’s family during what she called a “terribly distressing experience.”

The trial spanned more than six weeks, presenting extensive evidence and testimony.

Reeves thanked investigators, court interpreters, Crown prosecutors, and members of the community who provided valuable information from the start of the investigation.

“The jury has heard Yanfei’s case over the last six and a half weeks, and without them, this case could not be heard,” Reeves said.

Reeves expressed hope that the verdict would provide some comfort to Bao’s family, while acknowledging it does not ease their loss.

“Our thoughts are with Yanfei’s family. While the outcome does not bring Yanfei back, I hope they take some comfort knowing the person responsible will be held accountable.”

Bao, remembered as a hard-working and kind-hearted professional, leaves behind her husband and young daughter.