Mt Albert stabbing: House near scene of attack searched

Nathan Mata Pukeroa, 24 , died after being attacked outside a Renton Rd, Mt Albert. Photo / Supplied

Police investigating the fatal stabbing of Nathan Pukeroa in Mt Albert last Thursday have searched a house near the scene of the attack.

The scene examination at 19 Renton Rd - an adjacent property to where Mr Pukeroa and his associate were on the night they were attacked on the street - took place yesterday evening.

The property is a rental and is home to three people, police said.

Mr Pukeroa, 24, died in the early hours of last Thursday morning on the street outside a home he was visiting on Renton Rd - in a residential pocket of the central Auckland suburb, lined with feijoa trees and home to families who were shocked by what had happened.

At the time, one neighbour described the address outside which the two men were stabbed as a "Mecca of trouble".

A second man, 22, was seriously injured by the same attacker and police believe all parties were known to each other.

Police secured the neighbouring property yesterday and expect to be there for at least a few days.

Detective Inspector Chris Cahill said witnesses and neighbours have given investigators a lot of valuable information over the past week.

"Step by methodical step we have reached a point in the investigation where we believe 19 Renton Rd will assist us progress the investigation further.

"Occupants of number 19 were accommodated by Police last night and we will be speaking to them again today."

A red Toyota ute was seen speeding away from the scene after the attack last week, which occurred about 12.15am.

A witness had seen the ute visiting the property - which belongs to Housing New Zealand - on previous occasions.

Earlier this week police said the ute could provide vital clues to the case and wanted to hear from anyone who saw it in the vicinity around the same time of the attack or travelling on upper North Island roads.

The red Toyota utility vehicle - now painted black - was brought to Police about 6pm last night and has now been returned to those associated with it.

Police said aside from the scene examination and further interviews with witnesses and neighbours scheduled for today, officers will be continuing with background inquiries and the area canvas in and around Renton Rd.

Earlier this week police said they had not found the weapon that was used in the fatal stabbing and were yet to determine the identity of the attacker.

"We don't know who killed Nathan and we are exploring all avenues of inquiry, including the possibility that someone who lives in the area is responsible for the fatal attack last Thursday morning," Detective Inspector Chris Cahill said at the time.

• Anyone who has information they believe could assist investigators is urged to call Avondale CIB on 09 820 5784, Police generally on 111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.