Police today released the name of Nicole Tuxford, who was killed in the suburb of Merivale on April 7.
She was born and bred in Dunedin and moved to Christchurch to pursue her professional career after she finished high school.
A 54-year-old man had been charged with murder and aggravated burglary in relation to her death.
Ms Tuxford's family said in a statement released by police they were ''broken by the tragic loss'' of their beloved daughter, sister and partner.
''Nicky, as she was known, was a 27-year-old accounts manager for an international logistics company based in Christchurch. She was highly thought of and considered to have a bright future with the company.''
"Nicky was a funny, bubbly character who lit up a room with her personality and made other people laugh. She loved people and had ambitions to work as a counsellor so she could help others," they said.
The family asked for privacy and would not be providing any further comment.
