Police have identified the woman found in the Avon River in the early hours of this morning.
The woman is 27 year-old Ngatai Lynette Manning, also known as Malorie Manning.
Police have tonight spoken to her next of kin and partner.
Detective Inspector Greg Williams said the inquiry team have been able to establish that the victim was working as a prostitute in the Peterborough and Manchester Street area of Christchurch and she had other clients as well.
"We know that Ngatai was home last night at about 9.30 and we are piecing together her movements through the evening," DI Williams said.
The victim was wearing a short red cotton skirt, a black cardigan, a blue bikini top with white dots and was carrying a black shoulder bag. She was found with a watch on but without shoes.
Mr Williams said the enquiry team was starting to build a picture about Miss Manning's movements and if any members of the public had any information that might assist Police please contact the inquiry team through the Christchurch Central Police Station.
The body was seen near Dallington Terrace, east of the city centre at about 6.50am this morning by a passerby who reported it to Police.
DI Williams said the post mortem would be conducted tomorrow morning.
Please note DI Williams will not be available for further media interviews until after midday tomorrow.
Media Contact:
Annie Coughlan (027) 4748005