Teen now on murder charge

A Northland girl faced an upgraded charge of murder when she appeared in Whangarei Youth Court this morning over the death of her 30-year-old sister on New Year's Eve.

The 15-year-old accused was initially charged with assault after police found the victim with stab injuries at a house in Ruakaka, 30km south of Whangarei.

Police were yet to name the victim this afternoon, and were continuing to investigate the case and speak to witnesses.

The accused, who has automatic name suppression, was due to reappear in Youth Court on Tuesday.

- NZPA