Police mystified by murdered woman's movements

Tania McKenzie

Police are trying to figure out why Wanganui woman Tania McKenzie went out again on the night she died, after returning home from partying with a friend.

The twenty-year-old's partially clothed body was found floating in the Whanganui River just before midday on Friday.

She was last seen at work at a local tavern, The Red Lion Inn, before spending the early hours of the morning with friends in town.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Oxnam said the 20-year-old died of massive head injuries but he will not say what kind of weapon was used in the attack.

He is appealing for information from anyone who may have seen her between the early hours of Friday morning and when her body was found at 10.30am.

More officers have joined the 30-strong police team already investigating the killing, but Mr Oxnam said the public's assistance in helping police find the killer was vital. A special number has been set up - 0800 44 55 68.

Red Lion Inn manager Lisa Martin has described Ms McKenzie, who had worked there for the past 10 months, as a joy to work with.

"She is a bubbly, outgoing, fun person."

Ms McKenzie finished her shift at the tavern at 10pm then stayed on for a few drinks to celebrate her impending birthday.

"She was in high spirits. We all knew it was her birthday."

Ms Martin said it was out of character when Ms McKenzie did not turn up for work the following day.

"She is a committed loyal worker who always called in if she was running late or couldn't make it to work. When we couldn't contact her we were a little bit worried."

But when Ms Martin learned that Ms McKenzie's body had been found, her concern turned to horror.

- NEWSTALK ZB, HERALD STAFF