However, the Herald on Sunday understands the victim suffered serious stab wounds.
The scene of the murder was just a few streets away from Strathmore School where Tokoroa teacher Lois Dear was killed 18 months ago.
The street where the man was found was cordoned off for most of yesterday while police carried out their inquiries, which included interviews with residents in the area.
When asked if police were seeking anyone else in connection with the attack, investigation head Inspector Rob Jones would only say "extensive inquiries" were continuing.
Jones would not speculate on the victim's movements on Saturday night, saying it was still "too early" to comment.
One woman said she heard yelling, screaming and swearing on the street early yesterday.
Another resident, Iwi Bennion, said she was shocked to wake early yesterday to flashing lights and sirens, having not heard a thing.
"We hear the odd argument around here but this would be about the worst thing that's happened."
The street was not considered dangerous, she said.
