Sharlene Smith named as woman found dead at Hawke’s Bay worksite, homicide investigation launched

The death of a woman at a worksite in the Hawke’s Bay town of Omahu is being treated as a homicide.

Police were called on February 3 after Sharlene Smith, 64, from Rotorua, was found dead on a Taihape Rd property.

Detective Inspector James Keene said early inquiries established the death was “tragic and avoidable”.

“[She was a] much-loved mother, grandmother and sister, and we are determined to find answers for her whānau,” he said.

“We have a committed team of investigators ... and we are also calling on the public to help.”

Police are appealing for sightings of a white Mazda 3 2005 sports hatch on January 30 and 31 in the Taihape Rd/Omahu Rd Fernhill area.

“We would also like to hear from anyone who witnessed any other suspicious activity in the area during that time period,” Keene said.

“Anyone with information can get in touch through our 105 service, quoting reference number 260203/9739.”

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