Police release photos of backpack, travelling gear, after body found in Heathcote Valley

Gloves found with the man. Photo / Canterbury Police

Police have released photographs of items belonging to a mystery man found dead in Christchurch last week.

The images include a foreign-branded Sweed black backpack, a pump and distinctive gloves that were with the man’s body discovered in Heathcote Valley on Friday.

Emergency crews were called to Horotane Valley Rd after reports of a sudden death.

An investigation was then launched to identify the man believed to be in his 30s or 40s with a distinctive birthmark on his left forearm.

Police said it was investigating all avenues in order to identify the deceased man, including whether he is a visitor to New Zealand.

Today police released images of the backpack and its contents found alongside the man.

The backpack found with the man. Photo / Canterbury Police

The items include grey and black gloves, yellow and black gloves, a Powerade-branded drawstring bag and a bike pump.

The yellow and black gloves are branded Firm Grip with the word utility written on the top side.

The pump is branded Blackburn and described as a mountain pump.

The backpack found with the man. Photo / Canterbury Police

Detective Sergeant Chris Power said police were following lines of inquiry they hoped would lead to identifying the man.

“Police are hoping that these images, paired with a description of the deceased, may be recognised by someone in the community,” Power said.

“We appreciate all those who have come forward with information so far and continue to follow lines of inquiry where they become available.

“Unfortunately, the man remains unidentified.”

Yesterday, police were searching in the surrounding area at the intersection of Horotane Valley, Port Hills, Tunnel Rd and in Duncan Park.

Earlier, police said the man was wearing a black, long-sleeved, woollen jersey, black trousers and grey tramping boots.

Powerade drawstring bag found with the man. Photo / Canterbury Police

The bike pump found with the man. Photo / Canterbury Police

Police said if anyone had any information that could help identify the man to contact them on 105 and quote file number 250919/7193.”