The friend said Tolley had "a huge heart" and did not deserve what had happened to her.
Friends have been paying tributes to Tolley on social media.
One said: "You were so proud of your achievements and you'd smile when telling me about what new dishes you had created.
"Your enthusiasm for positive change was infectious."
Another friend said Tolley was "always so damn lovely and positive. What a waste is all I can think."
A Facebook group called "Seasons Grievings" has been created for friends mourning her death.
Investigation lead Detective Senior Sergeant Warwick McKee said police were looking for a knife and a firearm believed to be involved with Tolley's death.
"Just prior to the incident, at around midnight, four males were seen jogging south along Wilford St towards Ward St," McKee said.
One of the males was carrying a long rectangular object.
"Witnesses have described seeing three or four young men at the Ward St address at the time Lois was killed.
"One of the young men was described as particularly distressed after the incident had occurred and police encourage all these young men to come and speak with police.
"They are described as all about 182cm tall and wearing dark clothing with hooded tops."
McKee said Tolley was part of a large family, being the youngest of four children and having several nephews and nieces.
"This is an incredibly sad and stressful time for the family, who police are supporting through an incredibly difficult time so close to Christmas," he said.
"The family are devastated by this act of violence that has taken their much-loved Lois from them."
Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy said killing someone was not "tough", but handing yourself in was.
"What they did wasn't tough. The toughest thing is to put your hand up, and any friends and family, and tell them where they need to be going: straight to the nearest police station," he said.
"Somewhere, someone will know them, that's the key."
Guppy said his thoughts and prayers were going out to Tolley's loved ones.
"No one needs to experience what's happened there."
Police are working at Tolley's house with the Institute Of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) gathering evidence. A post-mortem was undertaken today.
"Police can reassure the community that we are making good progress into Lois' death with the help of the community and the meticulous forensic examinations being undertaken," McKee said.
"If you have any information that would help police we encourage you to contact the Operation Archer team based at Upper Hutt Police Station by ringing (04) 3812000 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111."
