Woodville death: Body to be taken for post-mortem

The body was taken to Palmerston North Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Photo / NZPA

The body of a man who died at a Manawatu house has been removed and a post-mortem examination will be done tomorrow, police say.

The body of the man, believed to be in his late 40s, was found at the Ormond Street, Woodville, property after police were called about 3pm yesterday.

The death was initially being treated as suspicious, but had been upgraded to a homicide, police said.

The man's body was removed from the property about today and taken to Palmerston North Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

A local kaumatua performed a blessing and karakia at the property as the body was removed.

A scene examination was expected continue for the next 24 to 48 hours and officers were still taking witness statements and doing an area canvass.

Police were working with the family to complete formal identification.

Acting Detective Inspector Dave Kirby said today that police would have a clearer picture of the circumstances that led to the man's death in the coming days and the post-mortem examination would determine how he died.

A team of 20 police staff, as well as ESR and forensic specialists, was working on the case.

"Officers are continuing to speak to residents at neighbouring properties as well as witnesses and persons of interest.

"We are aware that a number of people had been at the Ormond Street property earlier that afternoon and I strongly encourage anyone that saw any activity at the address including description of people and any vehicles to contact police," Mr Kirby said.

Anyone with information was asked to contact Detective Constable Claire Adkins on 06 210 2201 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.