Ms Pickering's partner, who wants only to be known as Kaade, made a plea through the media this afternoon, for her to get in touch with him, or police, to assure her family of her safety.
"A little girl has said, several times, that she just wants her mum back," Kaade said in his written statement. "Please know that we all love you very much and wish for your safe return."
Together Kaade and Ms Pickering have a seven-year-old daughter.
"Please get in contact (with us) and let us know you are okay," Kaade pleaded. "Everyone involved is very worried about you."
Detective Senior Sergeant Virginia Le Bas said Ms Pickering went missing on Monday, after last being seen at their New Brighton home, supposedly in the company of a 40-year-old man who today appeared in court.
The man, who had previously been named and photographed in the media, was granted name suppression today when he appeared on charges of abduction, sexual violation and assault with intent to commit sexual violation.
At the time of her disappearance, Ms Le Bas said Ms Pickering was wearing a black singlet top with straps, black cargo pants and sneakers. She wore her blonde dyed hair loose and also has a rose tattoo on her right calf.
"Nothing has been located today, that will advance this investigation into the location of Vanessa," she said. "From our investigations, it is unlikely she is taking 'time out' and we all have to hope that she will be safe and well."
Ms Le Bas said there was always the possibility searchers would find a body, but police and the "extremely emotional" family all hoped Ms Pickering was safe and well and would return.
"Vanessa is a 27-year-old girl who has lived in the New Brighton area - just a young mother - not really a remarkable life but just someone who is trying to do the best for her daughter," Ms Le Bas said.
"The family never thought they would ever be in this position."
Ms Le Bas said she could not discuss any information police has received from the arrested man.
"We are just continuing our inquiries."
Further charges could be laid, depending on the outcome of further investigations.
Police want to hear from anyone who has seen a blue/green Toyota Estima EFA 478, particularly in the North Canterbury area, between Monday and midday Wednesday.
