Lundy jewel box missing

By ALISON HORWOOD

A musical jewellery box is missing from the home of Palmerston North murder victims Christine and Amber Lundy.

Police say the wooden box, which stands about 30cm and has a clown face on the door, was last seen in the Lundys' home on August 29.

Next morning, Christine, 38, and 7-year-old Amber were found with horrific head injuries believed to have been caused by an axe. Police are still looking for the murder weapon.

Detective Sergeant Mark Painter said the jewellery box - bought from a department store 15 years ago - is the only item believed to be missing from the house.

Its disappearance was pointed out by Mark Lundy, aged 43, who was away in Wellington on business the night his family were killed. He was not sure of its contents.

Police say there was no sign of a break-in at the Kelvin Grove house and robbery does not appear to have been a motive.

They cannot rule out the possibility that Mrs Lundy answered the door, but have already said her body was found in the bedroom area of the house.

Police yesterday finished their dive search of the Manawatu River near the Opiki Bridge.

Nothing of significance was found.

* Police have set up an 0800 phone line to take information from the public. The number is 0800 679 468.

www.police.govt.nz/operation/winter.