Police are investigating the death of Invercargill woman Karen White, who was killed at her Lake Hāwea property on 8 March 2024. Photo: NZ Police
Homicide detectives believe people in Lake Hāwea near Wanaka have important information about the death of a woman who was the victim of a "significant assault" at her property nine months ago.
Police last month launched a murder investigation into the death of Karen Gaylene White, 60, who was killed on 8 March.
Detective Senior Sergeant Regan Boucher said police were following positive lines of inquiry about the Invercargill woman's death.
"We have confirmed the 60-year-old victim died as a result of injuries she sustained in a significant assault, and are speaking to a number of people who are assisting with enquiries," Boucher said.
"Police believe people in the community hold important information about Mrs White's murder and we encourage those people to come forward."
On Wednesday police were examining the Lake Hāwea property with scientists from the ESR but would not reveal further details about their investigation or what was found.
Last month police said it was an " extremely traumatic time for a family who have lost a daughter, mother, grandmother, wife and friend".
They wanted to speak to anyone who saw any unusual or suspicious activity in the Lake Hawea area around late February and early March, while reassuring the community they should feel safe.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.