A Huntly man who died in suspicious circumstances had injuries from being attacked, police say.
Wayne Terrence Noda, 48, was found dead in his home on Saturday.
Police and ESR forensic staff were at the house over the weekend trying to work out what happened.
An autopsy was done in Auckland on Sunday.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ross Patterson today confirmed that Noda died of injuries suffered in an attack, but would not reveal what the injuries were.
He said police were interested in hearing from the people who were in a silver SUV on Victoria St, Hamilton, near Bryce St, about 6.30pm on Saturday, June 30.
"A man approached this vehicle and appeared to attempt to get into it.
"We are also interested in a 2001 Nissan Skyline, registration KAM195."
Huntly locals noticed police at Noda's house but those spoken to by the Herald said that wasn't unusual as he was known to police.
Tributes have since been posted on Noda's Facebook page.
"REST IN PARADISE BRATHA!!!!," one wrote and another said "I love ya my bro forever and always, see you again when time comes being my turn".
Anyone with information can contact the Operation Tailor team at the Huntly Police Station on (07) 828 7650 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.