Friends grieve for young mother

A police guard outside a property on The Esplanade, Westshore where a woman's body was found. Photo / Hawke's Bay Today

The young mother found dead in her Napier home has been described by friends as the strongest, kindest and most beautiful person they had ever met.

Friends and family are mourning the death of Victoria Foster, 24.

A 28-year-old man shot after a police chase has been linked to her death. He remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital.

Victoria Foster, 24. Photo / Facebook

Sarah Paroli, Sarah Howes and Renee Hunt said they were still in shock at the news of their friend's death.

"It hasn't quite sunk in yet," Ms Paroli said.

There was nothing they couldn't tell Ms Foster. "She would never judge us, she was a huge part of our lives."

Ms Paroli met the young mum at a baby play group. Ms Foster's daughter is now five.

Ms Paroli said her friend was hard working and an all-round amazing person.

The Plunket nurse had recently landed her dream job. "She loved it."

Another young woman who spent her high school years in the same form class as Ms Foster and also attended her intermediate school has spoken of a kind-natured person.

"She was such a nice girl and an awesome young mother. She had a lot going for her."

A principal told Hawke's Bay Today Ms Foster was one of many "lovely" parents.

Of her daughter, he said: "She's a lovely child; never puts a foot out of place." NZME