Killing double blow for family after father's death

The family of slain West Auckland woman Susan Ann Marriner were already grieving the death of her father.

Robert Richard Marriner died on Tuesday last week. Seven days later, his 46-year-old daughter was found dead in her home in Henderson.

Police were called to the Silverstone Place house about 11pm on Tuesday and spoke to several people at the property before it was cordoned off.

Shane Millar, 30, was taken for more questioning, then charged with murder.

He briefly appeared in the Waitakere District Court yesterday.

His lawyer, Guyon Foley, said he would defend the charge.

Details of how Ms Marriner, a beneficiary, died and the circumstances leading up to her death remain under wraps.

Her sister Hilda Clarke said yesterday that the family were busy preparing her funeral.

A death notice from the family in today's Herald says she "was taken tragically" and describes her as a loving mother to her daughter, Shontel, grandmother to Oshanya and Ashlee and aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Last Friday, the family attended Mr Marriner's funeral at the Assumption Of Our Lady Church at Motukaraka Pt, Northland. He had lain in state at the Ngai Tupoto Marae.

Death notices last week from the family shed light on their grief.

"You were the best mate I could ever have," one said. "My brother for 56 years. You were a mentor, loveable, a philosopher and genuine lifelong friend. Our love to Barbie who loved you to the max. We will miss you so much. You leave a huge void in our lives."

Another said: "We will cherish those few days we just had together and the closeness we have become over the latter years. Memories will be forever."

And another read: "Don't be sad he's gone, just be glad you knew him."

A post-mortem examination on Ms Marriner's body is to be held today.

Waitemata district police spokesman Kevin Loughlin said a team of 20 police staff were working on the investigation.

The house was still cordoned off yesterday.

"CIB investigators supported by forensic experts are continuing a forensic scene examination of the house and property where the body of the murder victim was found," Mr Loughlin said.

"An area canvass has been carried out. Police are interviewing witnesses, associates of all the parties involved, and local residents living nearby."

Police said they were not seeking anyone else in relation to the death.

Ms Marriner's body had remained at the house overnight on Tuesday.

Shane Millar was remanded in custody until later this month.