Police in Wellington have commenced a homicide investigation into the death of a 30-year-old woman in Upper Hutt.
Police say they responded just after midnight following reports of a disturbance at a residential address on Ward St, Trentham, on Saturday.
The woman, believed to be living at the address, had been assaulted with a weapon and was found deceased in her home.
Police have confirmed the death was not caused by a firearm.
A post-mortem will be undertaken tomorrow. Police will not be releasing the name of the victim until that has been completed.
Three or four males are being sought by police in relation to the death.
"We understand these males were at the victim's address and were heard shouting and seen running from the address," says Detective Senior Sergeant Warwick McKee.
"I make this appeal to these individuals: be brave and come forward and tell us what has happened."
Police say they are engaging with and supporting the victim's family and are also asking for people to come forward with any information which could help.
"These men who were at the victim's address will be known in the community and information on who they are and where they can be found is needed to help resolve the investigation."
"This investigation has a team of 20 investigators who are focused on gathering evidence and working with the community to resolve this tragedy" Mr McKee added.
Police say the attack wasn't a random event and the public should not be concerned.
Anyone with information is asked to visit Upper Hutt police, ring (04) 381 2000 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Newshub.
