Stab wounds contributed to man's death - police

File photo / Martin Sykes

A man who died after a fight in Christchurch had stab wounds and other injuries that contributed to his death, police said today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Le Bas said that a post-mortem examination on Timonthy John Constable was completed last night.

Police have launched a homicide investigation into Mr Constable's death early on Friday morning.

Yesterday, they charged three men with assaulting Mr Constable. More serious charges may be laid when the three reappear in court on Tuesday.

Two of the three were granted bail by Christchurch District Court Judge Gary MacAskill when they appeared in court yesterday.

Levi Michael James Coombs, an unemployed 17-year-old, and Steven Wayne Bright, 25, were granted bail.

They both lived at the same house in Todd Avenue, Bishopdale, where police were called to a reported fight during Thursday night.

Strict conditions were imposed including a 24-hour curfew and a ban on contacting witnesses and the co-accused.

Adam Robert Gempton, of Sydenham, 20, unemployed, was refused bail by Judge MacAskill, but the judge said he would allow a new application to be made later.

As Gempton was led to the cells, supporters in the public gallery called out, "Be strong, son", and "Love you, babe".

Police are continuing their investigations and speaking to witnesses.

- NZPA and NZHERALD STAFF