Police say a body found last week is that of a missing Whanganui woman.
Marice McGregor, 45, was last seen collecting pine cones in the Lismore forest on 19 April.
The cause of her death is yet to be formally determined, but preliminary findings reveal she suffered head injuries.
The body was found in a bush-clad ravine off State Highway 4, 50km north of Whanganui, last Wednesday. Identification was delayed because the body was badly decomposed.
Ms McGregor's brother Rowan says it's bitter-sweet to have police confirm it's her body, as the family had been hoping she would be found alive.
'Sick with worry' waiting to hear
Sister-in-law Rosemary McGregor says she has been sick with worry waiting for news, and it has been terrifying answering the phone. But the family asked the police to find Marice and will be always grateful they did.
The initial scene examination at the ravine has been completed but forensic specialists are still being taken there for further investigations.
Mr McGregor says the family is planning a private funeral.
