Police in South Auckland have begun a homicide inquiry after the body of a woman was found inside her Papakura home on Monday.
The woman has been identified as Leanne Kingston, 39, who was the mother of four children aged between eight and 19.
Detective Inspector Mark Gutry says Ms Kingston's sister became concerned when she did not pick up some of the children from school on Monday afternoon.
Mr Gutry says the sister went to the Cargill Road house and found Ms Kingston dead.
He says a neighbour has told police that she heard a disturbance about 12.45pm and what sounded like a window breaking.
Police say there are signs of violence at the house and it appears Ms Kingston was injured before her death.
A post-mortem will take place on Wednesday.
