A missing 79-year-old Christchurch woman is being described as someone who always puts others first

Elisabeth Nicholls was last seen at Riccarton's Chateau on the Park hotel about 8pm last Wednesday.

Her husband of nearly 60 years, Gary, says the family has been living with painful uncertainty.

Detective Sergeant, Lucy Aldridge says police have grave concerns for her wellbeing after a wet and cold week.

She says they've done extensive searches in the Riccarton area but they're urging anyone with CCTV to check it.