Police are trying to establish the movements of Ngatai Manning, known as Mellory, last Thursday evening. Mellory's body was found in the Avon River early on Friday morning.
"We know that she was at home to around 9.30 pm. and then travelled into town to work," said Detective Inspector Greg Williams
"Mellory generally worked from the corner of Peterborough Street and Manchester and we had people come forward sighting her there that evening around 10 to 10.30 p.m."
DI Williams said it was common for the girls to be picked up in vehicles and they often take their clients to specific areas in and around that vicinity.
"I have directed that the areas be visited but to date we have not found anything of note."
The Post Mortem examination was completed this morning and indicates that she has suffered extensive injuries that have caused her death. It is the pathologist's view that she was dead before she entered the river.
"The family is absolutely devastated by Mellory's death. She has a partner living in Christchurch who contacted us after the release last night. She also has direct family living in Christchurch and we are currently arranging for family spokesperson.
"As yet we have not been able to identify where Mellory went into the river or where she was attacked.
DI Williams said Police were receiving good assistance from the public and from the people that work in that industry in around the Manchester Street area.
"I do ask that people to come forward and provide any information that they think might be helpful."
ENDS