Wellington waterfront death: Woman found dead in Whairepo Lagoon named

Police are still treating the death of Sarah Mayne, whose body was found in Whairepo Lagoon near Frank Kitts Park, Wellington as unexplained. Photo / via Facebook

Sarah Pauline Louise Mayne has been named by police as the woman who was found dead in Whairepo Lagoon yesterday morning.

In a statement, Wellington Police said they are still treating the 48-year-old's death as unexplained and anyone with information is urged to contact them.

Police would particularly like to speak to anyone who was around the wooden boardwalks on the city side of Whairepo Lagoon from 9pm on Friday until 3am on Saturday.

"This area is between Frank Kitts Park and Te Papa on the Wellington Waterfront," the statement said.

"If anyone has any information about Ms Mayne's death, or saw her around this time they are encouraged to contact the Wellington Police on (04) 381 2000 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"Ms Mayne's next-of-kin and family have been informed and Police are working towards establishing the cause, as well as events that lead to her death."

Sarah Pauline Louise Mayne's body was found in Whairepo Lagoon on Saturday. Photo / Devon Bolger

Since the news of Mayne's death, friends, family and former colleagues from around the world have taken to social media to pay their respects.

Mayne, of Wellington, formerly worked for Transit New Zealand - which later became NZ Transport Agency - and as a personal assistant with the Ministry of Education.

Former colleagues called the 48-year-old a hard worker who had great relations with people throughout the office.

She has also been remembered for being loving and kind, and having a beautiful heart.

Mayne's next-of-kin and family have been informed. Photo / via Facebook

Her body was found in the water near Frank Kitts Park at 10.55am yesterday and the body was taken from the scene around 11.30am.

A local kaumatua performed a blessing of the Whairepo Lagoon area at 4pm yesterday.

Meanwhile, rowers, paddle-boarders and members of the public were back enjoying the water this afternoon Newstalk ZB reporter Devon Bolger said.

"I've seen some flowers in the water, presumably in honour of [Mayne's} who's death is yet to be explained," she said.