A landfill in Porirua, Wellington is being searched on Friday morning as part of an ongoing investigation into the death of a 79-year-old woman.
Helen Gregory was found dead in her home on Baroda Street in Khandallah, a suburb of Wellington, on January 24, with a post-mortem indicating she died due to a "violent act".
In an update on Friday, a police spokesperson said it's believed some items were discarded by a person of interest several hours after Gregory's death and were later dumped at the landfill.
Police are seeking items that could "significantly advance the homicide investigation", with specialist search teams focusing their efforts on a specific area of the landfill, the spokesperson said.
Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch said the search on Friday demonstrates the efforts of the investigation team as they continue to piece together the events leading up to and following Gregory's death.
"The investigation has uncovered significant evidence enabling the team to develop a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding the death, and I am confident of a successful outcome," said Det Snr Sgt Leitch.
Police continue to appeal for information from anyone who may have any information to assist the investigations.
You can call 105, or make an online report at 105.police.govt.nz, click 'Update Report' and reference file number 240125/1641.
