Police have found remains believed to be that of  Christchurch woman Yanfei Bao.

While searching private farmland in the Greenpark area this morning, a shallow grave was discovered along the treeline.

Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves said the remains cannot immediately be formally identified, and work is now under way to excavate and forensically examine them.

“This news has been shared with Yanfei’s immediate family, and while long hoped for, still comes as a shock.”

“The area had previously been searched, and new information led us back here to search specific locations of interest.”

“For operational reasons, we are unable to share the information that led us to search this location.”

A scene examination is now under way and Police will be visible in the area for some time.

Police investigation staff are working towards an October trial date for a now 53-year-old man charged with murder in relation to Yanfei’s death.