Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Rawlinson, Area Manager 
Investigations: Western Bay of Plenty.

Police can now release the name of the woman who died in Kawerau on Saturday 
afternoon.

She was Michelle Kaipara, aged 49, of Kawerau.

Police extend our sympathies to Michelle’s loved ones at this difficult 
time.

A homicide investigation into the circumstances of her death is ongoing.

A 20-year-old man is next due to appear in the Tauranga District Court later 
today charged with murder and an unrelated assault.

Statement from whānau:

Our whānau is devastated. Michelle was the epitome of joy and love, and she 
will be sorely missed. Her memory lives on in her tamariki who are suffering 
severely at this time.

We send our heartfelt thanks to each and every person for the outpouring of 
love, acts of kindness and empathy shown to our whānau. We grieve with you 
as we remember the beautiful lady Michelle was and the lovely memories 
she’s left etched on our minds and in our hearts.

We ask media to respect our wishes not to provide any further comment 
especially in relation to Michelle’s death as the matter is before the 
courts.

A funeral service will be held this week in Te Teko to farewell our darling 
mother, sister, daughter, cousin, aunty, niece and friend. Details are 
available on the Te Tangi Pānui Page on Facebook.

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