Elderly woman killed with weapon - police

Police investigating the homicide of an elderly Christchurch woman say she was killed with a weapon, possibly while disturbing a burglary at her home.

Police said today the woman, who lived alone, had yet to be formally identified and the exact cause of her death had yet to be established but they were probably looking at a robbery that had gone wrong.

A scene examination of her home was being conducted today and it was believed a large size LCD television and a computer and monitor had been taken from the address, acting Detective Inspector David Long said.

The woman's body was found at her home in the Christchurch suburb of Huntsbury in the Cashmere Hills yesterday and Mr Long said she may have been dead for up to 48 hours.

A Mazda car that had also been taken from the woman's home was found about 2km from the house today and was being forensically examined.

"I ask that anyone who believes they may have seen the Mazda car since 9am on Thursday 18 February and this morning to contact us. It is a Mazda Lantis hatchback coloured silver registration WL7343," Mr Long said.

A team of 35 investigators, an ESR scientist and other forensic experts were working on the inquiry, he said.

"I can say that it is clear that the woman has been the victim of an attack involving a weapon. I will not comment on the nature of her injuries or what type of weapon may have been involved," Mr Bush said.

A post mortem examination was planned for tomorrow.

"I acknowledge that the circumstances of this crime, involving a retired woman who has been attacked and killed in her own home, is one of the most serious of crimes that can occur.

"While there are no immediate fears for the safety of any other member of the public, people should always be mindful of security in and around their home and immediately contact police if any suspicious activity is noted," Mr Long said.

- NZPA