Woman faces murder charge

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A 43-year-old woman now faces a charge of murder after the death of a man north of Auckland on January 3.

Natalie Theresa Ford, who had her interim name suppression lifted today, appeared in North Shore District Court to face the new charge and an initial charge of assault.

Ford, from Waiheke Island, was arrested after a man was found dead in Orewa on January 3. Police have not yet released his name.

Ford was released on bail to stay with a relative in Coatesville, north west of Auckland, and will reappear on January 29.

Her lawyer Barry Hart told the court his client's family were in court to support her and were able to have her on a 24 hour curfew at her relative's address.

Judge Barbara Morris said it would be at least 18 months until the trial could be heard, and agreed to release Ford on bail, under conditions she should not drink or possess alcohol or non-prescription drugs.

She was also told she may have to present a urine and breath sample to police on a regular basis.

- NZPA