Due to the graphic nature of this murder case, listener discretion is advised.

This episode includes discussions of implied murder and sexual harassment.

We advise extreme caution for children under 13.

Across the globe, New Year's Eve is a time to party.

The celebrations take many forms, but they typically have a few things in common,

music, drinking, and a whole lot of people. To most, it's a beautiful tradition, a way to celebrate the past year and set the tone for a new one.

But it can't all be fun and games. Even during a party, somebody has to take responsibility.

That's why we have designated drivers, bouncers, and chaperones.

When inhibitions are low, danger is high.

Back in 1998 the people of New Zealand got a painful reminder of

this. That New Year's the disappearances of two young revelers, Olivia Hope and Ben Smart captured the nation's attention and had

thousands demanding justice. Eventually, the case was closed, but whether or not the victims ever received justice is still in question.

I'm Vanessa Richardson, and this Serial Killers, a Spotify podcast. You can find us here every Monday.

Be sure to check us out on Instagram at Serial Killers Podcast.

And we'd love to hear from you so if you're listening at Serial Killer's Podcast.

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So if you're listening on the Spotify app,

swipe up and give us your thoughts. On December 30th, 1997, 17-year-old New Zealander Olivia Hope boarded a chartered yacht called Tamarack with her older sister

Amelia and a group of Amelia's friends from university.

The yacht was set to tour the Marlboro Sounds

before ringing in the New Year on the western side of the Sounds in an area called

Endeavor Inlet. Olivia had a lot to celebrate. After years of hard work and practice, she had officially

...