Police at an address on Huia St, Camberley, where it is believed 22-year-old woman, Taylor-Jade Hira was assaulted on August 15. Photo / File
Taylor-Jade Hira, the victim of a fatal assault, was laid to rest today as police continue the hunt for the suspect in question.
The 22-year-old died in Wellington Hospital last Sunday from injuries inflicted in an assault on Thursday morning last week.
Police confirmed they were looking for a man in relation to Hira's death.
They have a warrant to arrest him and he is believed to be in the Napier and Hastings area.
Police warn that he is considered dangerous and is not to be approached.
A service for Hira was held at Te Aranga Marae on Thursday morning with family and friends gathering to say their final goodbyes.
Former Miss Universe New Zealand 2017 and close childhood friend Harlem-Cruz Atarangi Ihaia turned to social media to send her farewells as well as a message to fight against assault.
"Another beautiful soul taken WAY TOO SOON ... my kuzzie in our childhood than growing you tend to drift apart," her Facebook post read.
"Time for change aye Tay ... and I'll make sure something happens in your name."
Paunovic moved to Havelock North with her family from Croatia seven years ago.