Name of 70-year-old victim released

Police have named the 70-year-old victim in a homicide inquiry in Kaitaia.

Barbara Catherine Julian was found dead in her Matthews Ave home about 5.30 last night.

Police have today been conducting a scene examination and talking with residents in the area. They say a man was seen walking away from Ms Julian's house earlier in the day.

Later yesterday another Matthews Ave resident contacted police about a man seen acting suspiciously on his property.

A 17-year-old male is appearing in court today charged with unlawfully being on a property. Police say he is of interest to the homicide inquiry.

They will speak to more residents over the next few days and are asking anyone with more information to come forward.