The lead investigator in the death of Helen Gregory says family members of the victim, and her murderer, have shown compassion and dignity through the "really terrible nightmare" of a month-long trial.
Julia DeLuney was found guilty of her mother's murder at the High Court in Wellington on Wednesday afternoon.
She cried quietly, but remained stony faced, as the verdict was handed down.
Relatives and friends of Gregory and DeLuney cried in the public gallery, with many having given evidence in the trial, or watched from the beginning.
Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch told media outside the court it had been a difficult investigation, and a difficult trial.
"I would like to specifically acknowledge the family and friends of Helen Gregory, who've had to endure this terrible and tragic journey," he said. "Many of them have been in court every day over the past month, and have sat through the most difficult and confronting evidence" which "must have been almost unbearable at times".
"The dignity, compassion and support the family have demonstrated every day of the trail has been incredible, and also quite remarkable."
He said he hoped the verdict would provide them with answers and certainty.
He also acknowledged the efforts, commitment and professionalism of the officers involved in the investigation over the past 18 months. "These investigations are particularly taxing on our staff."
Helen Gregory. Photo: Supplied
Victim an 'intelligent, kind, generous, prayerful woman'
Gregory's friend Liz Askin sat through the trial, describing her friend as "an intelligent, kind, generous, prayerful woman full of vitality and hope for the future".
"She loved her family deeply following their achievements and going to their sporting events and family gatherings," and it was "with great sadness that her life was cut short".
Cheryl Thomson was another of Gregory's friends who waited at the court for the verdict. She had been there every day after giving evidence herself.
"This is the place we come to for justice in New Zealand and I am pleased we have now got it," she said.
"Helen is sadly missed by all of us, holds a special place in our hearts and will never be forgotten."
She thanked Detective Sergeant Hayley Adams for her work, and that of her team.
"Julia won't now need to worry that she doesn't own her own home," she said. "The roof over her head for many years will be provided for her."
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