Public help wanted in Lake Hāwea homicide case

Police have today released details around the killing of a 60-year-old woman at Lake Hāwea property.

Eight months ago, Invercargill woman Karen White was found dead at a Lake Hāwea property on March 8. However, it wasn’t until November until her death was declared a homicide.

In a statement this morning, Detective Senior Sergeant Regan Boucher said Police are following positive lines of enquiry.

“We have confirmed the 60-year-old victim died as a result of injuries she sustained in a significant assault, and are speaking to a number of people who are assisting with enquiries.

“Police are actively working to establish the circumstances that led to Mrs White’s death.

“Yesterday (11 December 2024), Police were back at the homicide scene in Lake Hāwea with scientists from the ESR, completing further examinations in relation to areas of interest.

“Police cannot go into any more details about the examination or what was located."

Karen White ( Photo/ Distinct Funerals)

“Police believe people in the community hold important information about Mrs White's murder and we encourage those people to come forward.

“If you hold any information that could help, please update us online now or call 105.

“Please use the reference number 240308/6198.

“Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 11.”

Main image (supplied/NZ Police): The crime scene investigation at the location where Karen White was killed.