Police have named a woman found dead at a Kawerau property.

She was Lorraine Teresa Hoete, 59, from Whakatāne.

“Police extend our deepest condolences to Lorraine’s family and friends during this immensely difficult time,” Detective Senior Sergeant Lou Curragh said.

Hoete’s body was found on Sunday, October 25 while police were investigating a crash between a car and train at a private level crossing on Te Puke Highway in Paengaroa about two hours earlier.

The man driving the car was flown to Waikato Hospital with critical injuries.

Hoete was found dead in a bedroom with traumatic injuries to her head and face, Coroner Bruce Hesketh said in a ruling issued November 3.

Her name was suppressed until 5pm Monday at the request of police.

Police argued publication of Hoete’s name could hamper their homicide investigation.

At the time, police were unable to speak to the man involved in the crash due to his injuries.

Curragh said the investigation into Hoete’s death was ongoing.

“Police continue to work hard to find answers for her family.”

Anyone with information was asked to contact police on 105, quoting file number 261025/1492.

Information may also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.