Woodville homicide scene examined

Police inquiries continue at a Ormond St house in Woodville, where a man was found dead on Sunday. Photo / Christine McKay

An examination of the scene of a homicide at a Woodville property has been completed.

James Poto Whatuira, 49, was found dead at an Ormond Street house on Sunday after suffering a single gunshot wound.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Harrison said: "The scene examination has taken about five days to complete and we have conducted a thorough search of the property both inside and out."

The forensic examination of the Ford vehicle was also completed and items from the property have been seized for forensic testing.Police were not prepared to discuss what was seized.

"Priorities for the investigation team from here will be to follow up on information we have received, and progress our already established lines of inquiry in an effort to identify and locate whoever is responsible for the death of Mr Whatuira," Mr Harrison said.

Inquiries into the whereabouts of the murder weapon are also ongoing.

The investigation team were keen to speak to anyone that saw the 2005 model silver Ford Falcon XR6 Saloon, registration CRL12, in the Pahiatua and Woodville areas between 7am and 3pm on Sunday.

Police had previously said that they understood Mr Whatuira had travelled to the Ormond Street address in this car.

"I want to thank those vigilant members of the public who have called in with information as well as media for helping us with our appeal," Mr Harrison said.

"From the calls we have received it is evident that the public are keen to help us solve this investigation and bring some relief to Mr Whatuira's grieving family.

"We still want to speak to anyone that has any information, including sightings of the silver Ford Falcon vehicle and we encourage them to speak up and contact Police."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Claire Adkins on (06) 210 2201. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.