Police say they haven't given up hope on solving a 45-year-old cold case in Auckland

In 1980, 6-year-old Alicia O'Reilly was raped and murdered in her Avondale home.

Police say a re-investigation into the homicide began in 2020.

They say a trial has been underway for a new genetic investigative tool which may provide new leads after a DNA sample was obtained.

Detective Inspector Scott Beard says while it's a slow process they're hoping to try establish a DNA link to a potential offender.

He says Alicia's family continues to suffer from not knowing who is responsible for the crime and they want to give them the answers they deserve.