Woman charged in pub killing

Police have charged a West Coast woman with manslaughter following the death of a Buller publican on Friday.

The woman is alleged to have punched Little Wanganui Hotel proprietor David White in the head after he intervened in a disagreement between her and another woman at the hotel, 75km north of Westport.

Mr White fell to the ground and could not be resuscitated.

West Coast area commander Inspector John Canning said today the accused, who is from Little Wanganui, would appear in Christchurch District Court this afternoon or tomorrow morning.

Friend Daniel Vos, who has stepped in to run the hotel with his wife, said he hoped Mr White's body would be released now the charge had been laid.

The family has not been able to make firm funeral arrangements because of the delay is releasing the body.

However, a service is planned in Mr White's hometown of Wanaka.

- NZPA