Police still want to talk to people about death of homeless man James Whenuaroa

By Georgina Campbell

Police are making assurances the death of a well-known Wellington street personality is an "isolated incident" as an investigation continues.

James Whenuaroa, 53, was found outside Arlington Apartments in central Wellington with critical head injuries on June 17.

He spent time in Te Aro Park with friends before walking up Cuba St to Arlington Apartments at 6pm on the day he was injured.

Whenuaroa died in hospital days later.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Mallon said the death has been referred to the coroner.

"There are several people that police still need to speak to until the matter is finalised and ready to be considered by the coroner.

"The investigation to date has not identified anyone responsible for contributing to the events leading to James' injuries."

Mallon said there was nothing to indicate Whenuaroa's death was anything other than an isolated incident.

"Police are confident that the area is as safe as it can be and if anybody has concerns, then they should contact police."

He said police would continue to keep an open mind and investigate any new information presented to them.

Mallon said they had already gathered CCTV footage from cameras in Wellington's CBD and surrounding businesses to piece together Whenuroa's movements that night.

"We've conducted a wide areas canvas. We're pretty confident that we've spoken to about 95 per cent of the residents of the Arlington Apartments at the time and also a large number of people who were moving in and around the area."

Anyone with information on the case should contact Wellington police on (04) 381 2000, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.