Four teenagers have been arrested in relation to the death of Kelly Donner in Flaxmere, in Hawke's Bay, almost two weeks ago.
The youths, aged between 14 and 16, have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and will appear in the Hastings District Court on Friday afternoon.
Detective Senior Sergeant Marty James said police were seeking a fifth youth in relation to the death on March 4.
Further charges were likely to be laid, he said.
"Despite there still being a considerable amount of work to be done, I would like to thank the investigation team for their commitment and professionalism throughout the inquiry," said James.
"I still urge those that have information to come forward so that we can discuss their knowledge of the incident.
"Any threats or intimidating behaviour towards witnesses will not be tolerated and we will ensure that such complaints are investigated."
Donner died in Flaxmere on March 4 after an attack.
The death happened in the heart of the community, Donner being found in the carpark of the Flax Bar and Eatery in Swansea Rd, adjacent to the Flaxmere Village Shopping Centre, the bar historically known as the Flaxmere Tavern.
Flaxmere councilor Henare O'Keefe said these arrests meant the community could heal, and move on after a fornight of angst.
He said the police had taken their time with the arrests, but "amidst the anger and angst and frustration, we needed to let due process take its course."
"It's horrific, it's sad. If [the arrests] didn't happen, if it wasn't brought to the surface Flaxmere would be constantly looking over its shoulder," he said.
"In some ways, we've got closure."
There had been fear in the community with the culprits at large. While residents initially "circled the wagons, battened down the hatches" he said they soon decided not to let this incident change their daily lives.
"We've got to live our lives as per normal, that's the way to confront a catastrophe such as this."
