“It has been weeks since Teishallia’s whānau lost her and, as we come up towards Christmas, we are more determined than ever to get a result,” he said.
“We know someone in the community knows what happened, and that as time goes on that knowledge will be eating away at them.
“Do the right thing – come forward and tell us what you know.”
Police believe the offender was known to Te Paea and the offence was a targeted act of violence.
Police also believe the offender knew the property at Kotuku St and the attempt to conceal the crime was to create distance between the offender and Te Paea.
“In the weeks since Teishallia’s death, this person may have acted differently – avoiding questions about their movements, being evasive about Teishallia, and using family or friends for protection," police said.
“If you know someone that was in contact with Teishallia and fits this profile and is reluctant to talk about their interactions with her, then please share this information with us.”
Information can be supplied to police via 105 and quote Operation Knell, file number 251029/3817.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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