Calls to police after criticism of family over baby's death

Several people have phoned Christchurch police today after publicity about their frustration with lack of family cooperation into the death of a seven-month-old girl in February.

In a case with similarities to the deaths of three-month-old Auckland twins Chris and Cru Kahui in June, Staranise Orangaiti Hinerangi Waru was admitted to Christchurch Hospital on February 16 with life-threatening injuries.

Canterbury CIB Detective Sergeant Mike Johnson said Staranise died a short time after being taken off life support on February 18.

Today he said police were still seeking either those close family and/or associates "to help us or provide the key that's going to unlock this for us".

"We've had several people ring today and provide bits of information which may assist," he said.

The baby had been in the care of her parents the morning the injuries were sustained, though Mr Johnson said another person, whom he could not identify, had gone to the house that morning.

"An ambulance was called at 8.47 that morning and Staranise was rushed to hospital."

Mr Johnson said a post mortem examination revealed the baby died as a result of having been violently shaken. Police launched a homicide inquiry.

"We're still trying to get to the truth of the matter over what's gone on."

Mr Johnson said Staranise's parents were interviewed twice at an early stage.

There was initial co-operation but when issues needed clarification, the family became unco-operative, he said.

"When we've gone back to them just recently they've elected not to talk to us or exercised their right (to silence) if you like," he said.

"That's one of the reasons we're using another strategy to try to resolve it."

Mr Johnson said police had spoken to one witness in Australia and several others in the North Island.

Anyone with information should contact Mr Johnson at Christchurch Central Police Station on (03) 363 7400.

The Kahui twins died five days after they were taken to Middlemore Hospital with traumatic head injuries. Both also had historic broken ribs and one had a broken thigh bone.

Police have been highly critical of the family for their "stonewalling" tactics and their refusal to cooperate with investigators.

Auckland police investigating the twins' killing say they are still making strong progress but do not expect an arrest this week.

Detective Senior Sergeant John Tims, of the Counties-Manakau police, said there had been no major developments since his interview with the babies' father, Chris Kahui.

"We have analysed his statement and we are heading in the right direction. We are making good progress," he said.

- NZPA