Teenager charged with murder of Whangarei man

The house in Second Ave, Whangarei, where police are carrying out a scene examination after a man died of serious head injuries. PICTURE/NZME

A 16-year-old has been charged with the murder of a Whangarei man who was assaulted at his home on Sunday morning.

Police said Michael Patrick Griffin died in Whangarei Hospital after suffering serious head injuries in the assault.

A post-mortem examination found Mr Griffin, the father of three adult sons, was killed by a severe blunt-force blow to the head.

The 16-year-old will appear in Whangarei Youth Court later today.

Detective Inspector Kevin Burke said the arrest came about through information supplied by the Whangarei community and good police work.

"Although an arrest has been made, the investigation is still far from over."

Police said the family of Mr Griffin and the investigation team appreciated the help from the Whangarei community and urge anyone who has information to contact police.