The first photo has been released of the woman who died in a Kawerau homicide on Saturday.
Michelle Kaipara, 49, was found by emergency services with critical injuries at an address on Hall Street around 12:40pm on Saturday. She died a short time later.
A 20-year-old Kawerau man has been arrested and appeared in the Whakatane District Court on Monday morning, charged with murder and an unrelated assault.
Kaipara's family said her death has left them devastated.
"Michelle was the epitome of joy and love, and she will be sorely missed. Her memory lives on in her tamariki who are suffering severely at this time.
"We send our heartfelt thanks to each and every person for the outpouring of love, acts of kindness and empathy shown to our whānau.
"We grieve with you as we remember the beautiful lady Michelle was and the lovely memories she's left etched on our minds and in our hearts."
A funeral service will be held this week in Te Teko to farewell Kaipara. Details are available on the Te Tangi Pānui Page on Facebook.
