A 31-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Christchurch woman Renee Duckmanton.
A homicide investigation was launched after her badly burnt body was discovered 12 days ago by a member of the public on Main Rakaia Rd in Canterbury, about 500 metres from State Highway 1.
"While this arrest will not offer any solace for the loss of Renee, it's an important step for her family as they continue to grieve," says Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney.
A number of cars were seized as part of the investigation and police are appealing for other sightings of a silver Audi they believe was involved.
Anyone who saw a silver Audi after 8pm on Saturday 14 May is urged to contact the police. It's believed the vehicle was travelling to Templeton through Riccarton Rd.
Sightings of the silver car in Rakaia on Sunday 15 May, between 6pm and 8pm, are also urged to contact the authorities.
Police are appealing for sightings of a silver Audi similar to this one (NZ Police / Supplied)
Four properties are also being investigated.
Police believe Ms Duckmanton's death was related to her work in the sex industry.
"It is important that we acknowledge the continued victimisation of the women working on Manchester St, and police will be working with other agencies to consider what measures can be put in place to address this," Insp Sweeney says.
Ms Duckmanton's family have paid tribute to her following the arrest.
"Renee was a bright, bubbly, goofy young woman, who was very kind and trusting. Renee was deeply loved by her family and many friends and she will be greatly missed," they said in a statement.
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