Ordette Lloyd-Rangiuia died from a sustained attack with a blunt instrument, says Detective Senior Sergeant Tom Fitzgerald.
"She suffered severe injuries to her head and body in a sustained attack," he says. "At this time the post mortem is not yet complete and time of death has not yet been established."
Police are trying to establish Ordette’s last movements but believe the last known sighting of her was at 7.30pm on Saturday night. She may have gone to a local bar to drink and play the pokie machines and police would like to know if anyone saw her in a bar or around town.
"We need to establish her movements and confirm timings," says DSS Fitzgerald.
Detective Senior Sergeant Fitzgerald asks if anyone heard or saw any suspicious activity in the vicinity of Johnson Street, Christchurch between 7.30 pm on Saturday night and 3.30 pm on Sunday 1 February 2004 to contact Police.
Ordette’s partner, Stephen King, has not yet been located by police who would like to speak to him as part of the inquiry. The last confirmed sighting of Stephen King was at 10pm on Saturday night
"I’d appeal for him to come forward," Tom Fitzgerald says.
Ordette’s 16 year old daughter is staying with friends.