Some of Wellington's vulnerable residents have been left reeling following Thursday night's fatal axe attack in Upper Hutt.

The dead woman worked as a carer in the area, helping assist the elderly and disabled.

Complex Care Group co-ordinator Jan Moss says people who are dependent on care can become particularly close to those who work with them.

"It takes some time to develop a level of trust, so to have someone suddenly disappear in an obviously brutal sort of manner would be incredibly distressing," she says.

"To suddenly have somebody new in that role is really difficult for people, especially around Christmas."

The two men hospitalised after the attack have been discharged.