Forty eight year old Frances Maree Manufui went missing on Saturday after telling friends at the Auckland City Mission she might go to Hamilton by bus.
In a notice seeking the public's help, Waitakere police communications manager, Kev Loughlin, called her a half cast Samoan/European.
That was later retracted when police chief media adviser Jon Neilson said it was an incorrect ethnic term.
"On behalf of police and Kevin we apologise for this error. It is not an acceptable term and we acknowledge and apologise for any offence caused," Mr Neilson said.
Ms Manufui was found safe and well last night and returned to her IHC residential home.
