Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen
Police have named the man that died following an assault in Stoke on Friday night as James Whitikau Barton.
Officers were called to a property on Orchard Street around 7pm where the 48 year old man from Nelson was found with critical injuries.
Whitikau Barton was taken to hospital where he died, Detective Inspector Lex Bruning said.
A homicide investigation is ongoing.
Staff from across the Tasman District will join the efforts of Nelson Bays Police in the coming days to provide further assistance and support to the investigation team.
Bruning appealed for help in tracing the movements of a car - a white BMW X5 station wagon with the registration BMW693.
"We believe this vehicle is of interest to the investigation and are seeking to locate it."
He said officers were supporting the family of the dead man.
"Our thoughts are with his family and police will work to support them through this difficult time as we investigate to give them answers.
"Those involved are believed to be known to each other."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 105 and refer to file number 231110/4270.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
