A homicide investigation is now underway after a woman’s body was discovered at a worksite in Hastings last week.
Police were called to the property on Taihape Rd, Omahu after a body was found on February 3.
The woman was 64-year-old Sharlene Smith, from Rotorua.
Police field crime manager Detective Inspector James Keene said inquiries had established this was a “tragic and avoidable death of a much-loved mother, grandmother and sister”.
“We are determined to find answers for her whānau.”
Police have appealed for sightings of a white Mazda 3 2005 sports hatch on Friday January 30, and Saturday, January 31 within the Taihape Rd/Omahu Rd Fernhill area.
“We would also like to hear from anyone who witnessed any other suspicious activity in the area during that time period.”
People with information are asked to get in touch through 105 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers.
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