Kiwi shot in Libya laid to rest

Lynn Howie.

An ambulance led a hearse away from the funeral of health worker Lynn Howie who was killed in Libya earlier this month.

About 150 mourners gathered at the Kingswood funeral home in Upper Hutt to farewell the 46-year-old mother-of-two today.

Ms Howie previously worked with St John and Wellington Free Ambulance, and paramedics were among those attending the private service.

A lone bagpiper played as Ms Howie's coffin was brought out to the waiting hearse.

Ms Howie and her British-born boyfriend Mark De Salis, 48, were reportedly killed execution-style as they picnicked on an isolated beach at Sabratha, about 100km from Tripoli, earlier this month.

She was in Libya to visit Mr De Salis, who she had planned to live with after a UK holiday and her return to New Zealand.

Ms Howie's family, who have requested privacy since her death, released a short statement yesterday.

"Our family has been devastated by the loss of a loved mother, sister and friend. Her unexpected passing has been difficult for everyone who knew her,'' the statement, distributed by police, said.

Ms Howie's death has been referred to the coroner.

No arrests have been made in Libya, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said today.